Chronicle 05 26 2016

No. 104563

THURSDAY, MAY 26, 2016

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Happy 50th Independence Anniversary

Spirit of a nation showcased at Independence Jubilee 7

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Fireworks lit up the sky last evening to display the Golden Arrowhead in all its glory for the country’s 50th Independence anniversary at D'Urban Park (Latchman Singh photos)

President: Independence Speaker, Barbados PM, Rex McKay top National Awards List moulded our national identity 8

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, May 26, 2016

Jubilee celebrations Scenes of the 50th Independence anniversary celebrations Wednesday evening at D’Urban Park

More Samuel Maughn photos on page 15 ►

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, May 26, 2016

President: Independence moulded our national identity

‒ says economy must be reshaped to meet future goals

By Ravin Singh WITH six distinct identities fused within one geographic space, Guyana’s ardent aspiration and arduous struggle for political Independence in 1966 moulded a national identity which has been preserved 50 years later.

Thousands watched, their eyes fixed on the enormous screen which projected an audio/visual recording of President David Granger’s speech at D’Urban Park, the newly created stadium behind the iconic statue of slave rebel Cuffy at the Square of the Revolution.

A recognised historian, the President reflected on the fact that Independence on May 26, 1966, infused the qualities of audacity and tenacity in Guyanese, fortifying their determination to be masters of their destiny.

Further, it created new institutions on which to erect the pillars of the new nation.

The Head of State pointed to the fact that independence allowed Guyana the opportunity to adopt its own symbols of nationhood, such as its own flag, anthem, national awards, national motto, festivals and monuments.

“They exemplify our self-esteem. They are revered and will forever remain objects of national pride,” he added.

The Head of State keenly noted that Guyanese, today, are proud of these national

symbols, which define their identities and differentiate them from other nations.

However, political independence demanded more than just symbols and sentimental expressions, but also created the need for new institutions to preserve the country’s achievements, to promote the development of the nation and to protect the rights of the people.

As a result, the Court of Appeal, which is the highest court, locally, was established. Further, the public and police services were

established to stand guard over the country’s territorial boundaries.

He pointed out that in 50 years Guyana has improved access to education, electricity, health care, housing and potable water. Additionally, there has been the establishment of massive agricultural, drainage and irrigation schemes and industrial estates to put Guyanese to work. To support these developmental schemes, institutions to provide social protection such as the National Insurance Scheme

were simultaneously developed. Banking institutions to promote savings and provide credit for Guyanese were also established.

“Guyana, in a relatively short period of time after Independence, improved our economy to provide a higher standard of living for our people. Successive administrations, throughout the past five decades, have continued to add to our national assets and extend our public infrastructure,” the Head of State boasted.

Proud are Guyanese of

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Guyanese ought not to be a poor and dispossessed people. Our country is endowed with bountiful resources – both human and natural – to banish poverty forever. We have always been known to possess the values of self-sacrifice and solidarity.”

several other achievements over the last 50 years, the President said. These include efforts to deliver our people from dreary logies, shanties and tenement yards and to open the doors to their own family homes.

The establishment of the

University of Guyana, multilateral schools and technical institutes expanded access to education for children throughout Guyana’s 10 administrative regions.

The President said that they were done as the coun-

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President David Granger takes the Presidential salute at the Golden Jubilee ceremony on Wednesday evening (Samuel Maughn photo)

refashioned to ensure a better quality of life and human safety for Guyanese. And beyond the safety of civilians, he noted that the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) was

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday May 26, 2016

Guyana a ‘diamond in the region’

SECRETARY-GENERAL of the Commonwealth of Nations, Baroness Patricia Scotland, has described Guyana as a ‘Diamond in the Region’ and noted that the Commonwealth stands firmly behind with respect to the Guyana- Venezuela border controversy.

Baroness Scotland paid a courtesy call on President David Granger on Wednesday at the Ministry of the Presidency. She traveled to Guyana to participate in the country’s 50th Independence Anniversary celebrations.

The Commonwealth Secretary General also met with Minister of Foreign Affairs, Carl Greenidge and discussed the on-going border controversy between Guyana and Venezuela.

“The Commonwealth has always stood resolutely by Guyana’s side and I think that it’s easy to forget that we represent 2.3 billion people and 53 countries; so Venezuela understands absolutely that if they decide to single out one of our sister countries then it is singling out all 53.

So it is really important for Guyanese people to know that one third of the world’s population stands with you and you do not stand alone and you never will. Once I am Secretary-General, I am going to remind the rest of the world that you are not on your own,” said Baroness Scotland.

The Baroness Scotland’s visit to Guyana also marks one year since Venezuela

issued the 1787 Decree that claimed a significant portion of Guyana’s territorial waters.

The Decree saw aggression on the part of the Venezuelan military when over 200 troops with missiles, machine guns and a military boat on Guyana’s territory between San Martin and Ankoko Island.

Notwithstanding the challenges of the border controversy, Baroness Scotland said Guyanese have much to be thankful for and should use the occasion of the 50th Independence Anniversary as a time to reflect with pride on the many accomplishments.

“I think we need to rejoice. This is a golden anniversary. Guyana is a beautiful country and it has some of the most beautiful people in our region because it is a mix. I think if you look at the faces of the Guyanese people, you’ll see our history… I think that it is an opportunity for us to celebrate because Guyana has always been one of the diamonds of our region; a small state but with real beauty. So I am here to celebrate, I hope in real Guyanese style and I know that it will be fabulous so I want to say to all of Guyana, happy anniversary. Be proud of your nation; be proud of all the wonderful things you have achieved over the last 50 years,” she stated.

The Secretary-General noted that while there is still work to be done, Guyana has indeed come a far way.

- Commonwealth Secretary General

Meanwhile, asked to speak on her new portfolio relative to small islands and Guyana in particular, Baroness Scotland said as a Caribbean person leading the Commonwealth, she believes it is very important that those outside of the Caribbean Bloc have a real understanding of the region.

“Having been born in a small island and having all my life understood the nature of our difficulties it enables me to be better informed as to how we can together make

a difference. I stress, ‘the together” because what we know as a result of the new impetus from the Sustainable Development Goals which we agreed last year and the climate change agenda which was agreed in Paris COP21 is that the world has the same objectives now if we want to save the planet for our children. That gives us a real opportunity to plan and work together to achieve those goals,” she stated.

The Commonwealth Secretary General said the Carib-

bean Region is vulnerable as a result of climate change and it is critical that the region works together “to enhance financial opportunities”. She said efforts should be made to craft and “focus on how together we can make a difference because none of us have enough money, none of us have enough capacity on our own but what we are clearly understanding is that we pool our intelligence, capacity, opportunities and share those with each other, we’d really be able to make

a difference and this is what we already starting.”

The Dominican born Baroness said some Caribbean islands would be “incredibly burdened by the impact of climate change” as she referenced Dominica and the case of Tropical Storm Erica that destroyed the island following massive rainfall.

The Commonwealth Secretary General stressed that the Caribbean Region must “Work together to get the global community to understand that that vulnerability needs to be absolutely understood.”

Barbados PM meets President Granger PRESIDENT David Granger on Wednesday met with Prime Minister of Barbados Freundel Stuart at the Ministry of the Presidency. Prime Minister Stuart is in Guyana for the observance of the nation’s Golden Jubilee Anniversary of Independence.

President Granger will today bestow upon the Prime Minister the Order of Roraima at an Investiture Ceremony to be held at State House.

Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mr. Carl Greenidge, also attended the meeting.

The Hon. Freundel J. Stuart, Q.C., M.P., has been described as a “true

Prime Minister Freundel Stuart presents a gift to President David Granger for the people of Guyana, during a meeting at the Ministry of the Presidency. Foreign Affairs Minister Carl Greenidge looks on. (Ministry of the Presidency photo) rity in face of Venezuela’s

friend” to Guyana. He stands resolute in support

of the preservation of our country’s territorial integ-

continued threats to Guyana’s sovereignty.

Members of Ethiopian Orthodox church call on President ARCHBISHOP of the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church, Abuna Thaddeus and two other executive members Wednesday paid a courtesy call on President David Granger at the Ministry of the Presidency.

The Archbishop, who is visiting from Ethiopia, used the opportunity to congratulate the President on his assumption of office, as well as on Guyana’s Golden Jubilee Anniversary of Independence.

He was accompanied

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From left: Ms. Tsegute Sallasie, President David Granger, Archbishop Abuna Thaddeus and Mr. Abba Haile Mikael They will be participat- which are being held to mark

by Ms. Tsegute Sallasie and ing in the roster of activities, this important milestone.

Mr. Abba Haile Mikael.

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Berbicans celebrate Independence anniversary in fine style

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday May 26, 2016

BERBICIANS displayed the high energies of the ancestral spirits at the New Amsterdam State House, during their Jubilee cultural presentation which was laced with historical reflections, Tassa and African drumming, folk songs , dances reflective of three ethnic groups, and poetry of songs by the Mexican Mariachi.

It was the latter group that forced Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo, and his wife Sita, along with their three daughters, to interchangeably leap to their feet to dance to the popular song “La Bamba,” which was made popular in the 70s by the Merry Men. It was a nostalgic moment for the older folk, who joined in singing with the Spanish group, who made a surprised, yet welcomed visit to the proceedings, which commenced almost two hours after the scheduled 10: 00 hrs start time.

However, the wait was worth it, said an elderly woman, who took her seat at 09: 30 hrs. “‘I did not want to miss it, as I will not be here for the next fifty years.”.

Another group, the Shanto drummers of the United States of America, made up primarily of Guyanese in the

Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo and one of his daughters dance to Mexican music diaspora, also captured the hearts of the crowd as they performed an original piece “Guyana Nice,” with Olivia Tate as the lead singer.

Our indigenous youths celebrated too - in dance - to the song “An Amerindian life is not so easy,” even as they replicated in art form the various tasks they perform daily.

The New Amsterdam

Multilateral School Choir, under the directive of Billy La Benette, took the crowd down memory lane as they belted out several folk and patriotic songs including Small Days, Captain Captain, Not a blade a grass and O Beautiful Guyana.

An all-female group of dancers from Sandvoort Village, West Canje , took the Congo Nya African drum-

mers to task, while the lone Indian dancer from the Port Mourant Secondary School danced to the sound of recorded Indian music.

Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo in his address said the cultural presentation reminded those present of the energies of the ancestral spirits.

“The best tribute to our ancestors - their hopes and

dreams were, to live in a country which one day would be free.

“Sometimes we take our freedom for granted; we do not think of the sacrifices made.

“Our history has been one with many forces combined to push us forward. Even though politics tend to divide us as a nation, we must be united.”

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Reminiscing on past presidents, the Prime Minister noted that, “We made mistakes … but all political parties must be commended for bringing us thus far.

“If we are to move forward, we need all hands on the paddle , whether red, yellow or green. We must bat, we must bowl, and we must win.”

In his remarks, Regional Chairman Mr David Armogan observed that the years preceding the Jubilee were a long and difficult road, yet no one can deny that Guyana has become more prosperous now.

Earlier, members of the military and paramilitary along with secondary school students , nurses, members of the Pathfinders of the Seventh-Day Adventist church, were led by the New Amsterdam Band Corp through the main thoroughfare of New Amsterdam, signalling commencement of the flag-raising ceremony and cultural presentation.

Pupils of primary and nursery schools were not to be left out, as they very early lined the street in their cultural wear, reflective of the disciplined forces. Some waved their Golden Arrowhead, while others mimicked those on the parade.

Students and teachers of St Mary’s Nursery lined the New Mexican Mariachi entertains the New Amsterdam crowd through Amsterdam main thoroughfare to view the passing parade poetic songs which celebrate romance, camaraderie and nostalgia

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Editor-In-Chief

Nigel Williams Editor

Godfrey Wray

Editorial: 227-5216; 227-5204 guyanachronicle.com wnigel10@hotmail.com gnnleditorial@gmail.com

Editorial Building upon our independence

THE achievement of independence on the 26th May 50 years ago today marked another phase of development in the quest for freedom. This journey began with the fight against enslavement, indentureship and colonisation. In the process of acknowledging that development occurs in phases, recognition is given to the abolition of the slave trade which predated amelioration and freedom from slavery, which was followed by freedom of indentureship. These phases laid the foundation for the fight and achievement of universal adult suffrage, limited self-government and independence.

The bottom line is independence is a stepping stone to a nation’s growth and development. Among those who contributed to the 1966 struggle are namely Hubert Nathaniel Critchlow, Cheddi Jagan, Forbes Burnham, Peter D’Aguiar and not forgetting the people of Guyana. All who struggled at the end of the day, there had to be someone to whom the British Empire trusted to hand the Instrument of Independence : that person was Linden Forbes Sampson Burnham.

In politics it is also about policies and programmes, and in this regard Burnham gained the favour of the British coloniser and its allies, in an era when the Cold War was raging and no consideration had been given to any self-proclaimed communist.

With political independence, Burnham was tasked with the responsibility to lead the nation, to build and to forge “One people, One Nation, One Destiny.” It was he who took our young nation a step further to attaining the next phase of republican status, which is the ultimate freedom from political control.

As the nation achieved its political independence, the former coloniser/mother country still sought to retain control through various methods of control and influence such as the World Bank and International Monetary Fund. It became evident that political independence did not necessarily mean economic independence and the government of the day ought to have recognised this.

The policies of economic self-reliance, such as feeding, clothing and housing the nation sought to address this challenge for a nation that was importing more than exporting and not fully exploiting its agricultural and other natural resources for its own benefit.

Independence meant facing the many challenges of racial and ethnic tension. An indigenous education was pursued to reshape the way Guyanese saw themselves, to forge a nation, and to promote, understanding, respect, tolerance and peaceful co-existence among the various ethnic groups. This had the potential to reduce tensions, particularly between the two major groups, but yet proved more challenging given what appeared like an imbedded appositional tendency to accept the domestic leadership of Burnham.

These struggles also gave rise to the promotion of egalitarianism with efforts to ensure all were socialised to see themselves as equals. Each worker was promoted as important. No longer was the small man seen as mere hewers of burden, and his well-being incidental to production and productivity. The ideal promoted was for the “small man to be the real man.”

The quest for economic independence also influenced the nationalisation drive e.g. In the bauxite and sugar

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, May 26, 2016

Opposition claims denied seats at Jubilee celebrations

THE People’s Progressive Party /Civic (PPP/C) on Wednesday evening claimed its parliamentarians were denied seats at the Jubilee celebrations at D’Urban Park.

The party said that the issue of arrangements for accommodating the PPP/C MPs was raised on May 23rd,2016 with Minister Amna Ally and again on May 24th, 2016 at the sitting of Parliament; the Leader of the Opposition spoke directly to Minister Nicollette

Henry who is the Co-chair of the Flag Raising activity, the PPP said in a statement.

The party claimed that the Minister gave all assurances that seats had been reserved for the PPP/C MPs and their spouses.

On the morning of May 25th, 2016, Minister Henry was approached again about the location of and accommodation at the flag-raising ceremony and again, all assurances were given that the Leader of the Opposition, Members of Parliament and

their spouses would be accommodated, the PPP stated.

“Regrettably on arrival at the VIP area tonight there were no seats set aside for the Opposition MPs, except for the two Former Presidents, Dr. Jagdeo and Mr. Sam Hinds and two other MPs. “The majority of the MPs were left standing. Appeals were made to Minister Henry and Attorney-General Basil Williams but to no avail. However, in the interim dozens of people were

escorted to and seated in the VIP area. After standing for over half-of-an-hour in the passage way and no seats were made available, the Leader of the Opposition, Former President Hinds, accompanied by the MPs and their spouses departed.

“The humiliation of standing in the passage way while other people were being seated was deliberately designed to humiliate and embarrass the PPP/C parliamentary opposition,” the PPP stated.

President: Independence moulded our... try faced threats to its territoriality and to internal national integrity.

“Our people’s unity, our will and strength, enabled us to overcome these threats” the Head of State added.

While this was happening, Guyana also embarked on a progressive foreign policy to protect its vital national interests. According to the President, Guyana bestrode the international stage with a composure and posture which belied economic wealth or military might.

Reflective of this is the fact that the then leaders had the vision to pioneer the formation of the Caribbean Free Trade Area (CARIFTA), the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) and the African Caribbean and Pacific (ACP) Group of states and to play leading roles in the Non-Aligned Movement and the United Nations (UN).

And presently, Guyanese exult in their achievements and accomplishments of the past 50 years. He highlighted that Guyanese pay homage to their heroes and honour their cultural, sporting and academic heritage on this 50th anniversary of Independence. He pointed to the works of local artists, composers, dancers, dramatists and writers; the talents of sportsmen and women; the brilliance of scholars and the labours of working people will never be forgotten.

The “good life” slogan which has been touted by the Government since its assumption of office, the President said,

translates to the absence of poverty in Guyana. Further, it means the presence of equality and the creation of an enlightened citizenry through education, effective stewardship of the country’s natural resources and the creation of employment for Guyanese.

Given this framework, the Head of State noted that the mission then, for the next 50 years must be to expand the country’s economy, ensure equality, improve education, protect the environment and provide employment for all Guyanese.

But this is not an unachievable, idealistic dream, given the fact that Guyana is not a resource-poor country.

“Guyanese ought not to be a poor and dispossessed people. Our country is endowed with bountiful resources – both human and natural – to banish poverty forever. We have always been known to possess the values of self-sacrifice and solidarity” the President said.

In order to achieve these goals, he suggested that the country must realign its economy to generate the wealth that would allow for poverty reduction. This, according to him, includes improved and sustained higher economic growth in order to raise the entire population out of the depths of extreme poverty.

Supportive of this, is the enrichment of Guyana’s economy through the discovery of petroleum. With reserves of oil already discovered offshore, President Granger noted that Guyana looks

industries, and opening of national banks to drive local economic ventures. These sectors at the time epitomised a class, colour and race hierarchy, where Guyanese were not at the helm. Nationalisation moved that away and created space and opportunities for locals to be in positions of ownership and control.

That foundation having being laid, all who came after have to add to that vision in keeping with time, national and global perspective and challenges. Whereas at independence there was need to establish resistance to cultural penetration and other factors, local and external, that would have threatened the stability of a fledgling nation, it is now left for others to advance nationhood within the current context.

Today, the nation witnesses decay in the early values.

Guyana faces the threat of information communication technologies influencing anti-nationalistic behaviours. In addition to the threat of terrorism, there is the drug trade and corruption that transcend borders. Facing this challenge will require measures being put in place for social protection in the context of crime and drugs, where they have infiltrated every strata of society, rivalling the formal economy and threatening the arms of government.

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forward to preparing its people and the economy for the exploitation of this rich resource.

He charged that Guyana’s national economy must be reshaped to reduce dependence on the six sisters – bauxite, fish, gold, rice, sugar, and timber. As such, he noted that Guyana’s economic policy over the next four years will be determined by the transition to greater value-added production.

The Head of State also recommitted to the demolition of class and geographic inequalities, particularly between the hinterland and the coastland and between urban and rural communities.

Acknowledging that Guyana’s hinterland possesses its richest natural resources, the President noted that despite this endowment, those areas remain underdeveloped and plagued by poor infrastructure and environmental hazards. In this regard, he explained that the disparities in development and in households between the hinterland and the coastland must be reduced if Guyana is to become a more equal nation.

“We will continue to work towards the development of an inclusive and integrated plan to close the gap between hinterland and coastland. The plan will involve improved internal communication – aerodromes, bridges, causeways, highways, stellings and telecommunications ? and public services such as education, health, human safety and social security,” he committed.

Where the National Insurance and Social Security Scheme (NIS) was put in place in 1969 as a safety net, there is need for another safety net, such as protection from the influences of drugs. The APNU +AFC government to its credit has undertaken to advance development in less than a year with the invitation of the DEA to set up a Guyana-based office. The government has also advanced the recent passage of stronger AML/CFT laws which will help in eradicating this scourge.

The narco trade undermines the structure of government and independence, and destroys the very fabric of society.

At the political level, the challenge this nation faces is the restoration of holding leaders accountable within the confines of the laws, even as efforts are made to deepen and strengthen these. And last but not least, the most important challenge facing this nation and leaders lay in forging greater unity and respect. As a people, we have gone back on building one people, seeing ourselves as Guyanese with a purpose, where we are inter-related, interdependent and can co-exist in peace and harmony. There is work to be done to channel our energies towards nation-building where all can enjoy the fruits and benefits of this country.

Happy independence anniversary to all Guyana!

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Spirit of a nation showcased at Independence Jubilee

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday May 26, 2016

AFTER months of anticipation, Guyanese ushered in the country’s 50th Independence Anniversary with great emotion as the fifty foot Golden Arrowhead was, for the second time this year, hoisted in the air amidst much fanfare.

And while the atmosphere was not quite as energetic as it was on February 23, there was still an immense feeling of pride among the majority of people in the massive crowd. Over 20,000 Guyanese flocked the newly built D’Urban Park to celebrate this historic event and among them, many expressed great pride to have been able to witness Guyana at 50 and the celebrations that were hosted to usher it in.

Following the usual superstar reception for President David Granger and Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo, the show dived straight into a cultural presentation which saw the participation of over 1,000 young people. With the aid of a joint steel pan group, the national choir and an array of drums, the children pranced on the tarmac to a medley of National Songs.

Decked in costumes depicting the colours of the Golden Arrowhead and costumes representative of Guyana’s minerals, flora and fauna and other symbolic emblems, the children, among which included those as young as five years old, performed their choreography with great precision. And though it was at first a puzzle as to the order in which they performed, an aerial view of the performance revealed a strategic formation of the numbers ‘5-0’ on the large tarmac.

The night’s proceedings climaxed, of course, with the flag-raising ritual, during which the crowd waited patiently for the gigantic Golden Arrowhead to reach its destination atop the pole. During its ascension, the crowd watched on, cheering as it rose higher in the air.

The evening ended with a five minute display of fireworks, and a dispersing crowd among which persons could be heard chattering about the fact of how pleased they were that Guyana has achieved this milestone at a time when much positive change has been observed.

Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo, in the presence of Minister Nicolette Henry, waves to the crowd

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday May 26, 2016

National Awards On the occasion of the 50th Anniversary of the Independence of Guyana, National Awards were Wednesday evening announced at the Golden Jubilee celebrations. Below is the full list of awardees.

For his dedication and commitment to the Caribbean Community and his unflinching support for the rights of Small Island Developing States: The Rt. Hon. Freundel Jerome Stuart, Prime Minister of Barbados

Order of Roraima

F o r h i s commitment and service to Guyana in the diplomatic, parliamentary and legal fields and in the public service: Dr. Barton Umax Adolphus Scotland, Speaker of the National Assembly

For long, dedicated a n d outstanding s e r v i c e as a legal practitioner: Rex Herbert M c K a y , Attorney-atlaw

Cacique Crown of Honour

For her outstanding service in the administration of the law: Yonette Decina Cummings-Edwards, Chief Justice

For long and outstanding service in the field of medicine: Carl Alton Hanoman, Doctor of Medicine For his long and dedicated service in the field of politics: Jeffrey Ronald Thomas, former Minister of Government

For his long and dedicated service in the fields of education and the public service and as a major consumer advocate: Patrick Parbhu Dial, retired Public Servant and Consumer Advocate

For long and outstanding service in the field of business and commerce: Christopher Fernandes, Chairman, John Fernandes Group of Companies

For long and For his long and dedicated service in outstanding service the field of religion: in tertiary education, Malcolm Rodrigues, in industrial relations Catholic Priest and trade unionism and in jurisprudence For his long and in Guyana and dedicated service in the Caribbean: the field of religion: Harold Alexander John Oswald Lutchman, former Vice Smith, General Chancellor, University Superintendent, of Guyana Assemblies of God in Guyana

Military Service Medal

Paul Anthony Arthur Colonel, Guyana Defence Force Maxine Lavern Graham, Senior Superintendent, Staff Officer, Administration 1 Guyana Police Force, PTO Brian Linden Alexander Joseph, Assistant Commissioner of Police/ Head of the Presidential guard Monica Adams, Retired Divisional Commander, Guyana Fire Service Trevor Oliver Small, Retired Retired Senior Superintendent of Prison

For her outstanding service in the field of education and religion: Maureen Mae Massiah, Moderator of the Presbyterian Church of Guyana and former Headmistress, the Bishops’ High School

For his dedicated service in the field of diplomacy: Bayney Karran, Ambassador

For his outstanding service to Guyana in the field of diplomacy: Ronald Mortimer Austin, former Ambassador of Guyana

For his outstanding For his long and service in the Guyana outstanding service Foreign Service: in the fields of Keith Linden George, business and Ambassador management: Leslie Chin, Chairman, Sterling Products Limited

For long service with exceptional dedication in the Guyana Foreign Service: Audrey Theresa Waddell, Director-General, Ministry of Foreign Affairs For long and outstanding service in the field of business: Inderjeet Beharry, Director, Edward B. Beharry and Company Limited

For long and outstanding service in the field of business and in the management of a major charitable institution: Paul Chan-A-Sue, Chairman, Food For The Poor Incorporated and Businessman

For his commitment and dedicated service in the field of politics: Robert Herman Orlando Corbin, former Deputy Prime Minister and Former Leader of the People’s National Congress Reform

For long and dedicated service in the Guyana Foreign Service: George Wilfred Steir Talbot, Ambassador For her long, dedicated and outstanding service in the field of medicine: Enid Lucille Denbow, Doctor of Medicine

For long and dedicated service to the judiciary of Guyana: Beasraj Singh Roy, Justice of Appeal

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday May 26, 2016

Golden Arrow of Achievement

For his outstanding role in the field of education and in trade unionism: Lancelot Arthur Baptiste, General Secretary of the Guyana Teachers’ Union and Retired Headmaster

For long and dedicated service in the field of communications: Kim Alana Chung, Communications Supervisor, People’s National Congress Reform

For his dedicated involvement in contributing to the preservation of Guyanese culture in Guyana and in the diaspora: Vibert Compton Cambridge, Social Historian and Cultural Activist, Professor Emeritus, Ohio State University

For his long and outstanding contribution in the arts, especially as an illustrator and folklorist: Barrington Christopher Godfrey Braithwaite, Artist

For his advocacy For his long and for the rights of the outstanding indigenous peoples service as a at the village and parliamentarian and national levels: Tony Rodney James, as a Minister: Philip Duncan, Former former Toshao of Aishalton Village and Minister of State for Amerindian Affairs Farmer For his unflinching commitment in the safeguarding of the rights of the indigenous peoples of Guyana and his research in the Arecuna language: Lawrence Anselmo, former Toshao of Paruima Village For his long and dedicated service in the field of dentistry: Samiran Bera, Dental Surgeon For his long and dedicated service in the field of agriculture: Bernard Wylde Carter, Former Chief Agricultural Officer and General Manager of the Mahaica/ Mahaicony/Abary Scheme

For her long and dedicated service in the field of politics: Jennifer Ann Ferreira-Dougall, Counsellor and Community Worker For her long and outstanding service as an educator, especially in the area of science: Florine Emily Desiree Dalgety, Co-Founder and Teacher of Dominion Schools For her long and outstanding service in the field of education: Blanche Emmeline Duke, Former Acting Principal Cyril Potter College of Education For his outstanding service to the Ministry of the Presidency: William Victor Cecil Cox, Senior Public Servant and Political Assistant to the President

For her long and outstanding service as a music educator: Marilyn Patricia Dewar, Music Teacher and Accompanist of the Woodside Choir

For his long and dedicated service as a public servant: Reginal Agustus Brotherson, Permanent Secretary, Department of the Public Service, Ministry of the Presidency For his long and dedicated service to Guyana, more particularly in the bauxite industry: Horace Heyman James, Officer-InCharge, National Industrial and Commercial Investments Limited For his long and outstanding service in the field of technical and vocational education and as a Regional Chairman:

For his long service with exceptional dedication in the maritime and transport sectors and in the field of education: Ivor Burnett English, Principal, Critchlow Labour College

For her commitment and advocacy in the fields of labour, human rights and education: Dr. Mellissa Abigail Ifill, Lecturer, University of Guyana

For his distinguished service beyond the normal call of duty as an Officer in the Guyana Defence Force: Nazrul Hussain, Colonel, Guyana Defence Force, Disciplined Services Medal

For her long and outstanding involvement in the field of education as a teacher and administrator: Ingrid Jennifer Fung, Education Consultant, former Headmistress, St. Joseph’s High School

For her long and dedicated service in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, more particularly in the Protocol and Consular Affairs Department: Esther Dawn Griffith, former Chief of Protocol and Consul General Designate

For his long and outstanding service to Guyana, in the For his unflagging fields of finance, commitment to the auditing and development of education at the Guyana in the fields tertiary level: John of business and Michael Seeram, infrastructure: Cyril Stanley Ming, former former State Auditor and Financial Member of Parliament executive and Businessman For her long, dedicated and outstanding service in the fields of education and health: Gloria Britton Retired Headmistress and District Education Officer, Counsellor Linden Hospital and Lay Minister in the Anglican Diocese of Guyana

Medal of Service

For his consistent and outstanding role in implementing innovative measures in successfully increasing the yield of rice: Mohindra Persaud, General Manager and Director Nand Persaud and Company Limited

Gladys Accra, Manager, Joshua House Children’s Home Robert Frederick Allicock, former Operations Manager and Consultant, Iwokrama International Centre of Rainforest Conservation and Development Muacir Baretto Former Regional Chairman and Farmer.

Winston Alvin theodric Bentham, Retired Officer, Guyana Forestry Commission Perry Orlando Birbal, PTO, Businessman Aubrey Charles; General Manager, Mahaica/Mahaicony/Abary Agricultural Development Authority Esther Melvina Charles-Elliot, Health Worker, Moshabo Village, Essequibo, Pomeroon-Supenaam (Region Two) Marjorie Eleanor Charles Retired coordinator, People’s National Congress Reform, PTO Lilawatie Coonjah, Former Deputy Clerk of the National Assembly Vivienne Cecilia Daniel, Director, National Dance Company Nancy Ferreira, Senior Confidential Secretary to the President Ingrid Cecilia Forde, Office Manager, Ministry of the Presidency Gerald Leroy Gittens, Artist/Designer Leslie Jacobs, Tailor and Cutter, PTO Allan Johnson, Chief Executive Officer, Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation Shirley Daphne Klass, Retired Education Officer Anthony Pitamber Singh Mipal, Rice Farmer and Politician Eric Wilfred Mosley, Retired Public Servant Alshazi Baksh Ramlakhan, Regional Councillor, PTO Maureen Lynette Stephenson, Deputy Secretary to the Cabinet Allan john Carlwin Woolford, Retired Technical Manager, Ministry of Agriculture

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Soesdyke minibus driver put on $1M bail

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, May 26, 2016

...over causing death by dangerous driving A 40-YEAR-OLD minibus driver was on Wednesday placed on $1M bail by Magistrate Judy Latchman on a causing death by dangerous driving charge.

Robert Grant of Soesdyke, East Bank Demerara, pleaded not guilty to the charge which alleged that on May 23, at Garden of Eden, he drove minibus BSS 5550 in a manner dangerous to the public, thereby causing the death of Keith Andrew Simon.

Grant had opted to plead guilty to the charge but when the magistrate informed him about the maximum fiveyear penalty attached to the charge, he quickly denied the offence.

Police Prosecutor Vishnu

Robert Grant

Hunt did not disclose the facts of the case to the court.

The prosecutor also did not oppose the pretrial liberty

of the defendant. The matter was adjourned to June 10, for the next scheduled court hearing.

Simon, a 37-year-old farmer and resident of Grove Housing Scheme, EBD, was fatally struck along the Garden of Eden, EBD public road on Monday morning.

He was reportedly walking on the left side of the road, heading south when he was struck and killed by a minibus that was heading in the same direction.

The driver allegedly told ranks that he swerved from a vehicle and ended up colliding with the man.

Simon was taken to the Diamond Diagnostic Centre where he was pronounced dead on arrival.

Accused cocaine trafficker for high court trial, co-accused goes scot-free A MAN was on Wednesday committed to stand trial in the High Court for the offence of trafficking in cocaine while his co-accused Odinga Chase got off scot-free.

The decision was made

by Chief Magistrate, Ann McLennan after a preliminary inquiry against Shemroy Robertson, 31, of 101 Mandela Avenue and Odinga Chase, 29, of 169 East Ruimveldt Housing Scheme.

The men were jointly charged for the offence,

which alleged that on January 15, they had 1.156 kilogrammes of cocaine in their possession for the purpose of trafficking.

At yesterday’s court hearing, Magistrate McLennan told the court that a prima facie case was made out against Robertson based on evidence led by Police Prosecutor, Neville Jeffers.

She then committed Robertson to stand trial in the High Court at the next sitting of the Demerara Assizes. He was also admit-

ted to bail in the sum of $600,000.

However, the magistrate said that no evidence was produced by the prosecutor to prove the essential elements of the offence against Chase and she subsequently dismissed the charge against him.

When asked if he had anything to say in his defence, Robertson told the court, “I am innocent of this charge.” He opted to reserve his defence for the High Court.

Soldier with broken bottle robs schoolgirl of phone – court hears A GUYANA Defence Force soldier was on Wednesday granted self-bail

by Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan when he appeared in court charged with stealing a mobile phone from a 13-year-old schoolgirl.

It is alleged that Nahaise Jones of ‘B’ Field, Sophia on May 22, at Kitty, while being with another and armed with a broken bottle, robbed a 13-yearold secondary school student of her mobile phone.

Jones, who is attached to G2 Unit of the GDF, was unrepresented and denied the allegation. The soldier was placed into the custody of his commanding officer and the matter was transferred to Magistrate Annett Singh’s court for June 2.

THE POLICE CORNER THE POLICE/ZARA COMPUTER CENTRES SINCE during 2012, the Guyana Police Force has been receiving invaluable support from the US-based Guyanese Zara Reality Group of Companies with capacity-building in the field of Information Technology.

This partnership has seen the establishment of three Police/Zara Computer Centres in the Guyana Police Force, which has contributed significantly to the development of police ranks and consequently a better delivery of quality service through assistance with enhancing crime- fighting involving the use of technology.

Through the collaborative efforts of the Police Force and the Zara Reality Group of Companies, the first spanking new state-of-the-art Information Technology Training Centre was established on June 2, 2012, at the Felix Austin Police College (FAPC), at Adventure, Corentyne, Berbice, with a total of thirty one (31) computers and an LCD Projector.

The second such centre was established on June 8, 2013, at the Richard Faikall Police College at Suddie, Essequibo Coast, comprising thirty-six (36) computers.

The other Police/Zara Computer Centre was subsequently established at the Police Officers’ Training Centre, Camp Road, Georgetown, on November 30, 2013, with a further thirty (30) computers. The IT Training facility was complemented by a library.

The Police/Zara Computer Centres fall under the direct responsibility of Superintendent Shivpersaud Bacchus, who has benefited from Information Technology training in India through the ITEC Programme, and other IT programmes overseas and was recognised as the Police Force’s Best Cop 2015 in view of his excellent work in designing, developing and delivering IT Training.

Training Programmes conducted at

the Police/Zara Computer Centres include Introduction to Computers, Microsoft Windows Operating System, Office Suite, Microsoft Foundation and Advance Levels, PC Repairs, Networking and Network Security, CXC Information Technology and Electronic Document Preparation and Management.

The training programmes available at the Police/Zara Computer Centres are not limited to police ranks, but are being extended to members of the public at no cost. Consequently, over the years a total of two thousand six hundred and sixty nine (2,669) persons attached to several government ministries and other departments, the Joint Services, Students, Teachers,Nurses, Police Scouts and Youth Groups, Community Policing Groups and Neighbourhood Policing have benefited from training at the institutions.

The Zara Reality Group of Companies has also boosted the IT capability of the Criminal Investigation Department Headquarters through the donation of a LENOVER Server, 12 computers and other office equipment in order to assist with its Electronic Database Filing System.

During the Guyana Police Force’s Awards and Incentives Ceremony held in December last year, the Zara Reality Group of Companies was awarded a Plaque in recognition of their unstinting support to the Police Force in the area of Information Technology.

Information Technology is an integral part of the Guyana Police Force’s modernisation and strategic development. Its continuing enhancement has created technological innovations that have served as catalysts for significant change in the delivery of quality service to the public and in the maintenance of its mandate as is evidenced within the Criminal Investigation Department and other branches and divisions of the Police Force.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, May 26, 2016

King’s Jewellery presents President with Golden Jubilee pin PRESIDENT David Granger Wednesday received the first gold pin from a limited-edition collection, featuring the Golden Jubilee logo, from King’s Jewellery World.

The pin was presented to the President

by Proprietor of the store, Mr. Looknauth Persaud and his son, Mr. Rohandev Persaud.

In an invited comment, Mr. Looknauth Persaud said that the pin was specially manufactured to mark Guyana’s 50th Independence Anniversary. Only 100 pins were produced.

“We wanted people to have something

to commemorate the 50th anniversary. Most countries or most organisations will celebrate milestones and we did this with the jaguar because we thought that this would be a fitting memorabilia for people to wear. It is something to be proud, it is made with gold and Guyana is a gold-producing country,” he said.

The President expressed his gratitude for the gesture, noting that it is heart-warming to see Guyanese so excited and enamoured about the Independence Anniversary celebrations.

Replicas of the pin are also available.

Proprietor of Kings Jewellery World, Mr. Looknauth Persaud, affixes the Golden Jubilee pin onto President David Granger’s lapel while Mr. Rohandev Persaud looks on (Ministry of the Presidency photo)

Obama’s rep meets Granger MR. Juan Gonzalez, Deputy Assistant Secretary, Bureau of Western Hemisphere Affairs, United States Department of State, on Wednesday met with President David Granger at the Ministry of the Presidency.

Mr. Gonzalez is in Guyana for the Golden Jubilee Anniversary of Inde-

pendence celebrations and is representing President Obama.

He was accompanied to the meeting with the President by United States Ambassador to Guyana, Mr. Perry Holloway; Commander Michael White of the United States Embassy in Guyana; Captain Robert Landolfi, US Coast

Guard; and Ms Dawn Leavitt.

In an invited comment, Mr. Gonzalez said that it was an honour to be in Guyana for the celebrations as he noted that it is a beautiful country with beautiful people, which shares cordial and friendly relations with the United States.

“I am happy to be here representing the United States. The first thing the President and I discussed [was] the amazing reservoir of goodwill that exists between the United States and his government and the people of Guyana and our commitment to working towards advancing the prosperity of not just Guyana, but the rest of the Caribbean. There are a lot of Guyanese in the United States, so there is a familiar relationship between the United States and the people of Guyana. So coming here, even though it’s my first visit United States Ambassador to Guyana, Mr. Perry Holloway, President David to Guyana, it is almost like a Granger and Mr. Juan Gonzalez, Deputy Assistant Secretary, Bureau of Western homecoming,” he said.

Hemisphere Affairs, US Department of State

Edward Boyer is new PSC chairman THE Private Sector Commission (PSC) has elected Edward Boyer as its new chairman, replacing Norman McLean.

Boyer, who is also chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the National Hardware Group of Companies, was elected during the PSC’s Annual General Meeting on May 19, at the Marriott Hotel.

A statement from the PSC noted that Boyer is immediate past Vice-Chairman of the PSC and a former President of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

He is also Chairman of the Salvation Army in Guyana.

Meanwhile, Desmond Sears was elected Vice-Chairman. He is Executive Director of Delmur Co. Ltd, of Forestry & Technical Consulting Inc., and of Omai Transportation & Equipment Inc. “Mr. Sears has more

than 35 years of experience in shipping and is also the Honorary Consul-General for the Royal Kingdom of Norway,” the PSC noted.

Additionally, Ramesh Dookhoo was unanimously re-elected as Secretary of the Commission. He is a past chairman of the Private Sector Commission, current President of the Caribbean Association of Industry and Commerce and a Past President of the Guyana Manufacturing and Services Association.

Dookhoo is also a Trustee of the Caribbean Court of Justice Fund and Chairman of the Competition and Consumer Affairs Commission and the Cheddi Jagan International Airport. Additionally, Fitzroy McLeod was returned as Treasurer. He is the Financial Controller of the National Milling Company of Guyana.

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Guyana Gov’t: Recommit to building a nation of social and political stability

MAY 26th, 2016 marks 50 years since Guyana gained political independence. At midnight May 25th, 1966, the Union Jack was lowered for one final time on these shores and the Golden Arrowhead was raised aloft and fluttered with grace above the newly-named Co-operative Republic of Guyana.

On this, the auspicious occasion of the Co-operative Republic of Guyana’s 50th anniversary of Independence, the Coalition Government salutes all the people of Guyana for their resilience, dedication to nationhood, ingenuity and unwavering tenacity in building a nation which has established itself with pride as a democratic and progressive state in the community of nations.

On this historic occasion the Government recognizes the steadfast and visionary efforts of our leaders, led by former presidents Cheddi Jagan and Forbes Burnham,

who fought and struggled for our political independence from the United Kingdom of Great Britain.

His Excellency Brigadier David Granger, President of Guyana recently observed that “independence imbued us with a feeling of pride, a sense of purpose and the ardour of patriotism.”

His Excellency further noted in his address to Parliament on May 12th that, “the first fifty years of our independence had to be devoted to mending the social fabric, promoting peace and repairing the economy. The first fifty years were about overcoming a hostile international economic environment. The next fifty years must be different. Let us use this special year to usher in an era of social peace, political collaboration and economic prosperity for this and all future generations.”

The Government entreats Guyanese to recommit to building a nation which re-

alizes social and political stability and co-operation and ensures a better life for each citizen.

Moreover, the Government rededicates to all Guyanese to continue to work to elevate Guyana as a leader among the nations of the world, particularly in climate change and environmental protection, national unity and social cohesion, equality and justice, sports, music and the arts, responsible economic prosperity, environmentally conscious exploitation of natural resources, science and technology and innovation.

Guyana’s sail is set to take our majestic ship forward to broader horizons that would see us realise our goals of unity, social cohesion and economic prosperity.

The past 50 years must inspire us to greater heights and bolder achievement in the next 50 years as we march confidently onwards as a free, democratic and independent nation.

Hope alive for a progressive Guyana - PPP THE People’s Progressive Party (PPP) in extending greetings to Guyanese on the occasion of the 50th Independence Anniversary said that despite the problems in the country it remains optimistic for a peaceful, progressive and prosperous nation.

In its message the PPP said 50 years is indeed a significant moment in the political life of any nation.

“In this regard, the PPP joins with the entire Guyanese people in the observance and celebration of this historic milestone.” The party said that the struggle for independence is inextricably linked to the broader struggle for a free and just society waged by the PPP since its very inception as a political party.

It noted that the call for an independent Guyana actually commenced with the formation of the Political Affairs Committee (PAC), led by founding members Cheddi Jagan, Janet Jagan, HJM Hubbard and Ashton Chase.

“The records would show that it was the PPP under the indefatigable and charismatic leadership of Dr. Cheddi Jagan that led the assault against the colonial system of governance which ultimate-

ly resulted in the granting of internal self-government and later, political independence. It was a struggle that contained the elements of an epic story of political treachery and betrayal by the Anglo-American vested interests in collaboration with local reactionary forces that conspired to deny political independence to the country under a PPP government,” the PPP message read. According to the party, despite being manipulated out of office in 1964 and denied the honour of leading the country to political independence, it warmly embraced the granting of independence to the country on May 26, 1966.

“Regrettably, the hopes and aspirations of the Guyanese people were shattered by the failure of the PNC-UF coalition to meet the expectations of the Guyanese people for a better life. The country experienced a systemic deterioration in all aspects of national life, including that basic and fundamental right of electing a government in free and fair elections. Our symbols of nationhood which Guyanese had eagerly awaited turned out to be largely cosmetic and for a considerable period remained a sad

reminder of broken dreams and shattered hopes as the country experienced a free fall into an unending cesspool of economic and social decline as a consequence of undemocratic rule by the PNC regime.”

“As we celebrate fifty years of independence it is important that we reflect on the heroic contributions made

by Dr. Cheddi Jagan and his wife Janet who together gave more than a century of dedicated service to the cause of a free and democratic society. The PPP is extremely proud of the contribution it has made to the liberation struggle of Guyana. Indeed, all the major political and constitutional developments in the country carry the stamp of the PPP, including the struggle for universal adult suffrage, internal self-government and ultimately political independence,” the message stated.

According to the PPP, following the rupture of democracy by the PNC regime, the PPP waged a relentless struggle for the restoration of democratic rule which finally materialised on October 5, 1992 after nearly three decades of authoritarian minority rule. “As the vanguard

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, May 26, 2016

Time to break from divisiveness - AFC THE Alliance For Change has congratulated all Guyanese on the historic achievement of 50 years of independence. The AFC welcomes all Guyanese who have returned to our beautiful homeland to celebrate and enjoy camaraderie and brotherhood on this momentous occasion.

Our nation’s journey has been one characterized by triumphs and successes, difficulties and setbacks, honour and some distress. Through every season we have risen above and achieved and progressed. It is the people of Guyana who must be recognized for never failing our beloved homeland.

The strength and resilience of the Guyanese people have been the driving forces of this nation. It has been the people who have never relented and who have summoned the spirits of our fore-

fathers and ancestors to push boundaries, to demand better and to engender change.

For too many of these past 50 years Guyana’s advancement as a progressive state and model economy has been stymied and curtailed.

Now at the dawn of the next 50 years with the wind of change at our backs we must unhitch our nation’s future from divisiveness, disharmony and discord.

As we reflect on the life of our young nation we must take heart, and resolve to enhance Guyana’s greatness, to fast- track her development, to cement her place as a leader among nations, regionally and internationally.

Our peoples’ diverse backgrounds are a source of strength which we should not be coy in embracing. Our colourful, effervescent and infectious culture is emblematic of an enlightened and

endearing people.

Our people have demonstrated a capacity to achieve excellence in every major facet of human endeavour which they have pursued.

Let these next 50 years harness the energies, talents and strength of our people to pole vault our nation to command a place of pride and envy, continentally and hemispherically. The Alliance For Change believes uncompromisingly that Guyana possesses every asset and quality to so achieve.

The AFC is enthusiastic about Guyana’s future and the destiny of her people.

The party believes Guyana is poised to rise higher, shine brighter and emerge as a model state for responsible development. Long live the great land of Guyana! Long live the blessed people of Guyana! Onward, upward may we ever go!

Reflect and celebrate - GPSU ON the occasion of the 50th anniversary of Guyana’s attainment of Independence the Guyana Public Service Union (GPSU) joins with the rest of Guyana in celebrating this historic milestone in the process of nationhood.

We believe that the period of what has been designated our Golden Jubilee must be as much a period of reflection as a period of celebration. Indeed, there is much to reflect upon as we, as a nation, contemplate the journey that we have experienced over half a century of independence. It would be more than worthwhile for us to measure, for example, the extent of our accomplishments as a nation, whether those be in the field of the economy, culture, intellectual development or nation-build-

ing, that is the creation of a cohesive society.

Whatever else we do we must not forget to face honestly and frankly our accomplishments as much as our disappointments and perhaps more importantly to use the sum total of our experiences as a rudder with which to guide our path in the future.

What we, hopefully, would have learnt over those years is that real independence, real nation-building transcends the symbols and slogans that we create. What is clear is that the inspiration that will take us forward can only be derived from the setting of clear and worthwhile goals and the relentless pursuit of those goals.

For those of us who have been blessed with the experience of witnessing half a century of independence,

our mission is to determine the legacy that we will leave behind and work towards the realization of that legacy.

Nor should we seek to evade our collective overarching responsibility to continue to reach for that noble if still unrealized goal of a Guyana united across differences, reflected in our national motto, “One People, One Nation, One Destiny”. That, in the view of the Guyana Public Service Union, is the most important mission of all and one which, we believe, is yet to be realized.

On this note the President, Executive Council and Members of the Guyana Public Service Union wish to extend our congratulations to the nation on this momentous occasion.

Happy 50th Independence Anniversary.

political party the PPP stands proud of the role it has played over the decades in the creation of a free, independent and modern Guyana.

The PPP takes this opportunity of our Golden Jubilee to re-affirm its commitment to a free, united, prosperous and democratic Guyana. The Party is aware of attempts by the Granger-led APNU-AFC administration to downplay the contributions made by Dr. Jagan and the PPP in its vain attempt to re-write

our political history. Such attempts will fail as the Guyanese people are much more discerning and knowledgeable of our political history than the APNU+AFC coalition would give them credit for.”

Again the party said sadly, “our Jubilee celebrations are tempered once again by the removal of the Party from the seat of government in highly controversial elections as was the case during the

pre-independence years when the PPP was manipulated out of office by foreign vested interests in collaboration with local reactionary forces. Be that as it may, the PPP remains optimistic that the dreams and aspirations of the Guyanese people for a peaceful, progressive and prosperous society would become a reality in the not so distant future. Once again, happy anniversary greetings to the people of Guyana.”

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, May 26, 2016

Let’s remember the struggle Russia hails Guyana on 50th Anniversary of Independence for independence - GAWU AS Guyana marks half a century as an independent state, the Guyana Agricultural and General Workers Union (GAWU) is pleased to join with all Guyanese to celebrate this exciting and landmark anniversary in our history.

We need to recall, at this time, that there was near absolute consensus amongst our then leaders that we needed to shed the constitutional and other chains with which we were then wrapped. Independence brought us and we joyfully welcomed our new status as citizens of Guyana, no longer colonial subjects tied to a “mother” country. It also brought heavy responsibilities for a free and prosperous future. The onus was now ours to chart our own course and it was recognized that national independence needed to be strengthened by economic independence and social justice. Those objectives had to be attained and sustained.

GAWU feels certain that out independence, which we fought for, is an attainment to be cherished and will be cherished by coming gener-

ations too. Since independence we have moved forward. There are successes in several fields nationally; and at the international level our country has earned recognition and respect especially when it took principled and laudable stance on issues that are of concern to humanity. That respect was surely strengthened with the resurfacing of our democratic culture over twenty years ago, which today again faces new challenges. Notwithstanding, the trials and setbacks, periods of marking time, economic and social decline there have been also very many significant achievements in our endeavours to overcome the negative legacy of colonialism and fulfill our development obligations.

The GAWU is aware that several key objectives are yet to be reached. One of these is our economic sovereignty which we see crucial to safeguard our political independence, especially in the context and circumstances that we see unfolding in today’s world. The prospects for our country to grow and develop remain encouraging and we need to tackle the various

tasks before us in a collective and united spirit. In this respect, acts and obstacle that tend to undermine our still fragile democracy should be discontinued, measures that bring hardships on working people should be frowned upon and our people, especially our working people, need to become involved in the decision-making process at various levels of our society.

As we celebrate this historic anniversary, GAWU urges that we all recognize that we have a responsibility to build our nation, to make great efforts to realize enduring national unity and strengthen the strands that bind our nation. We must be justly proud of our well-deserved freedom and it must also be a joy for all our people. At the same time, let us on this 50th Anniversary remember the struggles associated with the fight against colonialism and these organisations and outstanding leaders who were at the front of those history-making efforts. GAWU extends a Happy Independence Anniversary to all Guyanese!

IAC urges gov’t to reach out to non-supporters THE Indian Action Committee (IAC) wishes to convey greetings to all Guyanese citizens on the occasion of the Independence of Guyana from British colonial rule on 26th May, 1966, fifty years ago.

The IAC calls upon all Guyanese citizens to remember and recognize all those persons who contributed to the ending of British colonial rule in Guyana, including former Presidents Cheddi Jagan, Forbes Burnham and Janet Jagan, and stalwarts of the struggle for national liberation like Hubert Nathaniel Critchlow, Jocelyn Hubbard, Joseph Pollydore, Ramkarran, Ashton Chase, S.C., Jainarine Singh, E.M.G. Wilson, Cedric Vernon Nunes, Martin Carter, Rory Westmaas, Eusi Kwayana, Brindley Benn, Moses Bhagwan and Reepu Daman Persaud.

The IAC, in recognition of the challenging history of Guyana during the past fifty years dominated by authoritarian rule (1968-1992) and, especially the period from 1962 to 1964 when there was a state of undeclared civil war which resulted in: 1. Over 200 persons losing their lives 2. Over 900 persons suffering physical injuries

3. About 2,700 terrorised families being displaced from their homes as villages were engulfed in orgies of ethnic cleansing 4. Over 1,700 cases of arson in which over 300 business places and houses were completely destroyed by fire during wanton acts of terror 5. Losses of over US$20 million in the local economy as opposed to an investment of US$2.2 million used to destabilize pre- Independence British Guiana, according to U.S. declassified documents.

6. The destruction of the Indo-Guyanese community at the adjoining villages of Wismar and Christianburg between 24th and 25th May, 1964 followed by the evacuation of 3,300 Indo- Guyanese persons under the protection of British military forces on 26th May, 1964, exactly two years before Independence and the brutal assassination of Dr. Walter Rodney in June, 1980.

The IAC joins with the political parties, religious bodies, trade unions and other civil society groups in the call for inclusion, genuine and lasting national unity in the drive towards economic development and prosperity. The IAC has recognised recent endeavours by certain elements of Guy-

anese society to ludicrously portray the false impression that Indo-Guyanese were not involved in any meaningful manner in the struggles for independence from colonial rule and therefore to counter this anti- national behaviour, the organization will resist any attempt, whether intentional or unintentional, whether subtle or openly, to miniaturise, minimise, deny or erase the important role played by IndoGuyanese during the struggle for independence.

To this end the IAC will be hosting several lectures to highlight the contributions of Indo-Guyanese to the struggle.

The IAC wishes to inform the citizens of Guyana that the organization has heard the call by the APNU+ AFC coalition Government for inclusion and social cohesion but feels strongly that this call must be matched by action on the ground and, therefore, now calls upon the government to reach out to the sections of Guyanese society that did not vote for it in May 2015, so that real social cohesion and national unity may be achieved. Let us all resolve to realize the dream of our foreparents and independence heroes and heroines to make our 50th Anniversary a true national event.

The IAC wishes all Guyanese citizens a Happy Independence Day.

ON the occasion of the 50th Anniversary of Independence of the Co-operative Republic of Guyana, the President of the Russian Federation Vladimir Putin conveyed a congratulatory message to the President of the Co-operative Republic of Guyana David Granger as follows: “Dear Mr. President, Please accept my sincere congratulations on the occasion of the 50th Anniversary of the Independence of the Co-operative Republic of Guyana.

I note with satisfaction the friendly and constructive nature of Russian-Guyanese relations. I am confident that the further strengthening of bilateral co-operation in various fields meets the basic interests of the peoples of our countries.

I wish you good health and every success, as well as well-being and prosperity to all the Guyanese citizens.”

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov also sent a congratulatory message to his colleague, Minister of Foreign Affairs Carl

Greenidge.

He emphasized that a firm foundation of the Russian-Guyanese relations has been laid, a positive co-operation experience in political, trade and economic, cultural and humanitarian, educational and other spheres has been accumulated. The Embassy of the Russian Federation in Guyana joins these messages and sends its heartfelt congratulations to the Guyanese nation on its remarkable event in the country’s history.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, May 26, 2016

Teen crushed in freak accident after steelpan practice ‒ Government deeply saddened at tragic death

A TALENTED young lad who was slated to perform at the 50th Independence anniversary flag-raising ceremony was killed Tuesday evening after he was run over by the very truck that was transporting him and other students.

Dead is 14-year- old Kevin Scipio of Lot 6 Railway Road, Kitty.

Reports revealed that the truck was transporting the steelpans back to the North Ruimveldt Multilateral School and Scipio was among the steelpan players who had just wrapped up rehearsals at the D’Urban Park and were also at the back of the truck.

When they began to unpack, the teen reportedly hopped out the truck and fell down; when the other students in the vehicle noticed, they began to hit the side of the truck to alert the driver, but that did not work, as that’s the same signal that he would receive to reverse.

The government expressed deep sorrow and

Dead: Kevin Scipio

heartfelt condolences to Scipio’s family.

“It is with deep regret that His Excellency President David Granger and the Government of Guyana learned of the tragic passing of Richard Ishmael student and member of the Pan Wave Steel Orchestra, 14-year-old Kevin Scipio,” the Ministry of the Presidency stated in a press release.

“The President, Government and all Guyanese

Dr. Roopnaraine embraces the mother of Kivon Scipio during a visit to her home Wednesday morning

mourn his passing, which comes at a time when the nation is celebrating our 50th Independence Anniversary. The Government will immediately make avail-

able counselling services, through the Ministry of Social Protection for members of the band and the family of the late Kevin Scipio.”

The Ministry of the

Presidency also expressed condolences to the members of the Pan Wave Steel Orchestra and the staff and students of the Richard Ishmael Secondary School.

Young Scipio was looking forward to his opportunity to participate with his peers in this significant observance.

According to mother of the teen, Alieka Davis, her son has been playing pan for the past two years and began to practise more often as the independence celebrations approached.

“His instructor called me after 10:00PM Tuesday night; I then rushed down to the hospital but he was already gone,” she noted.

Minister of Education Dr. Rupert Roopnaraine, Minister within the Ministry of Education Nicolette Henry and officers of the Ministry of Education Wednesday morning visited and paid their respects to Ms. Alieka Davis.

The Ministry of Education has offered its support to the mother and family and extended its deepest regret at the passing of Kevin Scipio, especially as he was looking forward to participating in the Jubilee celebrations on Thursday, May 26.

City to block ‘outsiders’ from taking up Stabroek vending spots STABROEK Market vendors who were relocated recently to a facility south of the Public Buildings are complaining that spots are being made available there for persons who have never vended in front of Stabroek Market.

As such, those vendors who have been plying their trade for many years are left without a place to sell.

Mayor Patricia Chase-

Green spoke of the issue at the Council’s most recent statutory meeting at City Hall, noting that numerous complaints have been received from the vendors.

“This is unfair and it should not happen,” the Mayor pointed out. She requested that the Markets Committee intervene and resolve the issue by Friday.

Earlier this month, an estimated 130 Stabroek

Market vendors officially commenced their relocation to the Old Royal Castle site opposite the Linden bus park, under a temporary contractual arrangement that is expected to last three months.

The Mayor had noted that the relocation exercise formed part of the Council’s agenda to clean and beautify the city. She admitted that over the years,

GDF MEDEVACS Charity woman to Georgetown THE ARMY on Tuesday conducted a medevac operation for a patient from the Essequibo Coast to Georgetown, which mitigated the likelihood of her condition worsening.

This was according to the military body in a statement issued Wednesday to the press.

It was noted that at approximately 22:00 h, GDF was requested to provide MEDEVAC services for a patient of the Suddie Hospital, located on the Essequi-

bo coast. Approval for this was subsequently granted by Chief-of-Staff, Brigadier General Mark Phillips, and Force Medical Officer (FMO), Dr. Nigel Langhorne, was dispatched by helicopter to Suddie.

The patient, Sonia James, was airlifted from the Police training compound at Suddie and transported safely to Base Camp Ayanganna, in Georgetown. Once there, an Ambulance which was on standby then transported her to the Georgetown Public Hospital

Corporation (GPHC).

According to GDF, twenty-six year old James, who resides at Charity, is reportedly stable and in good condition at a city hospital, thanks to the quick response from the MEDEVAC services.

“The quick action to MEDEVAC Ms. James to the GPHC has more than likely mitigated the dangers she faced in her condition.

The GDF remains ready and committed to serving the people of Guyana” the statement said.

vending went out of control. “We take responsibility for losing control over the vending situation,” she said.

City Hall had called on persons who own stalls within the market to return to those locations and the council noted that in excess of 40 vendors were identified as legal stallholders operating on the streets. They were warned that should they continue to use the stalls for storage purposes, they will be repossessed.

Meanwhile, City Hall had said recently that it is not seeking to put stakeholders out of business, but its goal is to ensure that vending is done in an atmosphere that is conducive and legitimate, which would be of mutual benefit to stakeholders and the Council.

Georgetown Deputy Mayor Sherod Duncan had said that the move by City Hall to re-organise the Stabroek Market Bazaar is perhaps the single largest undertaking in that vicinity since the market was constructed in 1881.

According to the Georgetown municipality, if the city is to attain the status of a top international city, change is imperative.

It is unclear what plans the municipality has in store for the vendors at the end of July, when the temporary relocation period will conclude.

Meanwhile, the opposition, People’s Progressive Party (PPP) has criticised the relocation exercise.

The PPP deemed the matter “the brutal displacement of vendors and the wanton

destruction of their stalls in Georgetown.”

According to the PPP, the reasons provided by the administrators of the capital city regarding clean-up activities for this year’s Golden Jubilee celebrations, “as the justification to remove the vendors is unpardonable and must be rejected by all fair-minded Guyanese.” The PPP said that the process was undertaken without consultation with the vendors. (Telesha Persaud)

Jubilee celebrations GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, May 26, 2016

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Scenes of the 50th Independence anniversary celebrations Wednesday evening at D’Urban Park

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, May 26, 2016

Suriname joins Guyana’s 50th Independence celebrations

President David Granger and Ambassador Harvey Narendorff, Advisor on the Council of Ministers of Suriname, during a meeting at the Ministry of the Presidency (Ministry of the Presidency photo)

AMBASSADOR Harvey Narendorff, Advisor on the Council of Ministers of Suriname on Wednesday paid a courtesy call on President David Granger at the Ministry of the Presidency.

Ambassador Narendorff is representing President Desi Bouterse at Guyana’s Golden Jubilee Anniversary of Independence celebrations.

In an invited comment, the Suriname government’s representative said that Guyana has come a long way.

He noted that Suriname and Guyana have always shared a friendly relationship and it is his wish that this can be strengthened.

“I think we have come a long way. Guyana is on

a road to a really amazing emerging country and we have a lot in common, not only in our problems but also good things. Economically speaking, we just discussed with the President the many companies which are coming to establish their offices here and are doing quite well; and I do hope that Guyanese feel as welcomed in Suriname if they want to establish economic centres within our country,” he said.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, May 26, 2016

Reminisce on the valour and indefatigable spirit of our foreparents

‒ Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha AS we celebrate Guyana’s 50th Independence, it is necessary for us to reflect on our history with the aim of understanding the common struggle which resulted in us casting off the shackles of subservience and rising as an independent country.

Guyana’s pre-independence years were fraught with hardship and resulted in our foreparents taking a resolute stance against colonialism. Many of Guyana’s sons and daughters lost their lives in our struggle for independence. As we observe this 50th milestone, we reminisce on their valour and indefatigable spirit.

A sea of evolutionary changes occurred in the post–independence years.

There were obstacles to real development and progress. The serious economic hardship, crime and loss of equal opportunities and democracy in the first two decades resulted in the consistent migration of many Guyanese families. It was the resilience of remaining Guyanese that shone as they managed to contribute posi-

tively in diverse spheres of our country.

After years of struggle and development, we celebrate our festivals together and enjoy the many-faceted cultures, norms and traditions of all the peoples of Guyana. We must move forward with that same tenacity and fortitude displayed by our foreparents. There are new challenges and difficulties but our spirit must never be vanquished. We must see the attainment of 50 years as a milestone of our evolution as a people and country.

The Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha will continue to play its role of contributing in a sterling manner to the Hindu community and all of Guyana through its impacting and diverse programmes, initiatives and events. The Sabha has an impressive 42year history of contributing to the cultural, social and religious landscape of Guyana and our vision encompasses many more years of service as we evolve to meet the many challenges and developments in Guyana and the world.

Fifty years as an independent country should

Myriad agri opportunities on the cusp of realisation – NAREI ON this significant milestone of Guyana’s 50th Independence, the National Agricultural Research and Extension Institute (NAREI) extends heartiest congratulations to all Guyanese. As Guyanese partake in various celebratory activities it is important that our many successes are acknowledged.

NAREI is proud to have contributed to Guyana’s development and is looking forward to continue serving the public. The local agricultural sector holds many possibilities in the areas of alternative energy sources, food security, and wealth generation.

As we look ahead there

is much excitement at the myriad opportunities that are on the cusps of realization.

Current work on exotic fruits and vegetables are moving apace with the transfer of technologies to farmers imminent before year-end, in some cases. In addition, modern technologies such as shade house cultivation and hydroponics are becoming popular among the farming community.

NAREI believes that the application of science in agriculture is critical to its ongoing evolution.

The institute encourages persons to get involved in agriculture and experience true independence.

motivate us to work harder and more diligently to achieve the ideals of togetherness, productivity, equal opportunities, understanding, sustained peace, mutual respect and sound value systems and principles for our children, youth, adults, families, communities and country.

Happy 50th independence and may our beautiful land Guyana and all our peoples be forever blessed.

Guyana can be justly proud of achievements, progress – CARICOM AS Guyana prepares to celebrate its Golden Jubilee Anniversary of Independence on Thursday 26 May, 2016, Secretary-General of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), Ambassador Irwin LaRocque said that the country could be “justly proud of its achievements and progress over the five decades of Independence.”

In a congratulatory message to President of Guyana, His Excellency Brigadier David Granger, the Secretary-General pointed out that the path trodden over the half century of endeavour had seen Guyana transformed through its determination to fulfill the vast potential of its human and natural resources.

“This steadfast commitment has been bolstered by the resilience and fortitude of the people of Guyana who

embraced eagerly the task of building a nation,” Ambassador LaRocque said.

The Secretary-General also referred to Guyana’s role in the Community, and singled out the Caribbean Festival of Arts (CARIFESTA) which was conceived by, and inaugurated in Guyana.

“As one of the original signatories to the Treaty of Chaguaramas, and as the headquarters of the Caribbean Community and its Secretariat, Guyana has demonstrated leadership and foresight in advancing and promoting regional integration. A most significant contribution in this regard is the Caribbean Festival of the Arts (CARIFESTA) which was conceived by and inaugurated in Guyana. It continues to

serve the worthy goal of strengthening the bonds between the people of the Community, an essential ingredient of the integration process. The work and talents of Guyana’s artists, scholars, writers and sportsmen have adorned the regional and global landscape,” Ambassador LaRocque noted. In his message also, the Secretary-General said that the theme of the Golden Jubilee `Celebrate; Reflect; Inspire’ provided the people of Guyana with ample scope to rejoice on this “landmark occasion, to weigh this formative period of the nation’s history and to draw its lessons and appreciate its achievements, and to kindle the motivation to strive towards greater progress in the future.”

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Guyana can count on friendship and support of US – John Kerry

ON behalf of President Obama and the people of the United States, I join the families, communities, and leaders of the Co-operative Republic of Guyana in celebrating their country’s Golden Jubilee anniversary of independence.

The United States and Guyana are bound together by our shared democratic values and our common interests in ensuring prosperity, stability, and security throughout our hemisphere. And our partnership has yielded tangible results on issues of

vital importance to both our nations.

This year, we strengthened our relationship in law enforcement training, port safety, justice sector reform, and coastguard cooperation through the Caribbean Basin Security Initiative. We worked together to diversify energy resources and expand investments in sustainable energy projects through the recent U.S.-Caribbean-Central American Energy Summit.

At the same time, we have acted to create opportunities for vulnerable Guyanese youth through the efforts

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, May 26, 2016

of USAID. And we have deepened people-to-people ties between our countries through initiatives to build bridges between American and Guyanese universities, and to dismantle barriers to study abroad for our students.

Fifty years after independence, the citizens and government of Guyana can count on the friendship and support of the United States as, together, we address our common challenges and build a future of peace and progress for our peoples.

John Kerry, United States Secretary of State

Thursday, May 26, 2016 - 05:30 hrs Friday, May 27, 2016 - 08:30 hrs Saturday, May 28, 2016 - 09:30 hrs

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, May 26, 2016

Independence Day message from the Mayor and Councillors of the City of Georgetown

THE Georgetown City Council in their Independence Day message is calling on Guyanese, as they celebrate, to also “let the hard work, commitment and dedicated service of those who have gone before, inspire us to work together to advance Guyana, so that it would be a better society for all regardless of race, religious persuasion or political affiliation.”

In bidding a “Hearty Independence Day to all Guyanese at home and in the Diaspora,” the M&CC said, “Let us resolve to work together in unity, harmony and love so that together we can charter a new course. May we strive to achieve the ideal of our moto ‘One People, One Nation, One Destiny’.”

The message continued: “Fifty years ago, we celebrated the culmination of our struggles against colonialism with the independence of our country. It has been 50 years since our people asserted their liberty and the nation’s autonomy restored.

“Independence asserts that all men are created equally; that the Great Architect of the Universe endowed us all with certain inalienable rights, among those are life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.

“In our Jubilee Year, we reminisce and salute the achievement of our great leaders Linden Forbes Sampson Burnham and Dr. Cheddie Jagan. Therefore, the sweat blood and tears of our ancestors should not be treated trivially, but valued to the point that we are inspired to develop the rich legacy bequeathed to us.

“As we reflect, on the true meaning of jubilee, let us also contemplate on ways in which we can liberate the City from the social ills that consume many. As we give expression to our cultural diversity and rich heritage, may we also consider ways in which we can contribute to restoring the beauty and pristine state of Georgetown.

“The vision of the Georgetown Municipality is to deliver a City that is comparable to other modern cities in the hemisphere; a city that is clean, green and pristine, a garden city that is well zoned, an environment free from violence. A City where good environmental care and health is practiced by all citizens, our heritage sites are maintained and enhanced and, cultural diversity is promoted and expressed, where our open spaces are transformed and beautified so that all citizens, particularly our vulnerable groups can have maximum access.

“Presently, the City of Georgetown is poised to experience an environmental renaissance; this can only be achieved with the co-operation of every man, woman, boy, girl in every community working in unison with the Georgetown City Council. We are therefore convinced that this is possible as we work together. God bless Guyana on this 50th Independence Celebration,” the message concluded.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday May 26, 2016

GOA to support Doris and other ...

From back page

conference.

Wanting to ensure that Doris has every opportunity to work on his skills leading up to the Olympics, the GOA head, K. A. Juman-Yassin said that the Association will be looking to do everything to support Doris, as well as the other Olympic qualifying athletes, in their training in the leadup to Olympics.

Doris, who will be in Guyana until the end of this month, is scheduled to travel from Guyana to Greece, where he will continue his training and also participate in two Diamond League events in Switzerland and Oslo.

The GOA will be footing the bill for this endeavour.

“We look forward to having a very fruitful and long-lasting relationship with Troy. As soon as he leaves Guyana he’s going to Greece. He is going to spend a month there training and competing. Troy has given us a budget for that month in Greece and we have decided we want to give him almost everything, so basically we will be looking after his expenses to train.

“Apart from that we are also reaching out to the other athletes who have qualified, asking them what are their plans, what they wish to do and as

soon as we get that we will try our best to fulfil that.”

Juman-Yassin stated.

Doris is one of four athletes who have thus far qualified for the Rio Olympics. The others are Winston George (men’s 400m), Brenessa Thomps o n ( w o m e n ’s 1 0 0 m , 200m), and the most recent addition, Aaliyah Abrams, who qualified in the women’s 400m. There remain the hopes that more athletes will qualify, since the qualification period runs until July.

With all of these athletes so far being overseas-based, it is hoped that there could be a local addition to the team, with a number of local athletes close to their qualifying marks, according to Hutson. Some of those athletes are currently in Trinidad for the Hampton Games, while local athletes, unable to travel to events to qualify, will have the opportunity to do so on home turf with the upcoming National Seniors Championships and the Aliann Pompey Invitational, both held next month at the National Track and Field Centre.

“It’s the first time in a long time that we have athletes who would be going to the Olympics in such numbers, and who would have earned their place and are not going on Universality spots.

“It shows growth in the

programme, and we are hoping that we can have a few more. We’re still looking at Ms Natrena Hooper who is slightly off the high jump qualifying standard, Akeem Stewart and also Mr Rupert Perry.

“We have our National Senior Championships and we have the Aliann Pompey Invitational where they will have opportunities coming up to qualify.” Hutson said.

Yassin also took the opportunity to thank the parents of Doris, for the great job they have done.

“Without your sacrifice both in time and money and in encouragement, I don’t think he would be where he is. A lot of times praises are not given to the family, and I would like to compliment you and encourage other families to do what they can to help athletes achieve what they can.” Juman-Yassin commented.

For his part, Doris noted that he is elated to have this opportunity to represent Guyana.

“Initially when I first qualified I just had this sense of joy; that joy was amplified because I’m now representing Guyana. It’s a long time that I’ve wanted to represent Guyana, and it’s finally happening. I’m very excited for the opportunity.

“I just want to represent my family, and Guyana at the highest level.

It is a big thing for me,” Doris said.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday May 26, 2016

Murray survives second close shave at French Open

By Martyn Herman PARIS, France (Reuters) - Andy Murray survived a second close shave at the French Open yesterday, but his path towards what he hopes will be a maiden title in Paris is getting so circuitous he may soon find himself hacking through trees in the nearby Bois de Boulogne.

While defending champion Stanislas Wawrinka, fifth seed Kei Nishikori, Agnieszka Radwanska, Simona Halep and Garbine Muguruza, eased into the third round yesterday, world number two Murray took the long and winding road again.

The Scot spent Monday and Tuesday figuring a way past an unorthodox Czech, 37-year-old Radek Stepanek, extricating himself from two sets down to scrape through in five.

This time it was lit-

Andy Murray tle-known 22-year-old French wildcard Mathias Borgue, playing only his second grand slam match, who led the former U.S. Open and Wimbledon champion astray.

Initially overwhelmed, Borgue recovered from a 6-2, 2-0 deficit to take control in astonishing fashion, reeling off eight games in a row and forging into a two-sets-to-one lead.

When he pummelled a backhand winner down the

line to take the third set Murray looked stunned and the partisan Court Philippe Chatrier crowd were in full cry.

Murray was rocking, but saved three break points at the start of the fourth set, one with a sublime half-volley, and gradually seized control again to prevail 6-2, 2-6, 4-6, 6-2, 6-3 in three hours 34 minutes.

“I lost my way on the court today, you know, for quite a while,” Murray, who joined the crowd in applauding Borgue, France’s 16th ranked player, told reporters.

“I was struggling to win points at one stage. I couldn’t see where his shots were going.”

“You can’t play too many matches like this if you want to go far in this tournament,” added Murray, who has already spent seven hours and 15 minutes on the clay.

COMPELLING DRAMA Murray’s opponent in the

third round, Ivo Karlovic, was involved in the day’s other compelling drama.

The big-serving Croatian, another 37-year-old, defying age, beat Australian wildcard Jordan Thompson 6-7(2), 6-3, 7-6(3), 6-7(4), 1210 to become the oldest man to reach the third round of a slam since Jimmy Connors in 1991.

“It’s the only time when being old is okay,” 27th seed Karlovic, who has boomed down 72 aces in two rounds, said of his milestone victory.

It was the longest match of the tournament for a while, at four hours 31 minutes, before Frenchman Gilles Simon took a minute longer to come back from two sets to beat Guido Pella.

Quite what Karlovic and Murray will cook up tomorrow is anyone’s guess, but expect the unexpected.

Like Murray, third seed Wawrinka suffered a firstround fright in a five-setter

against Lukas Rosol.

He was still not at his best yesterday against Japan’s Taro Daniel, but having saved two set points in the opening tiebreak he won 7-6(7), 6-3, 6-4.

RELATED COVERAGE Gasquet and Kyrgios relishing Paris showdown “If you look at the first two matches, for sure I’m not playing my best tennis, but I know I have my best tennis in me,” the 31-year-old said.

He plays Frenchman Jeremy Chardy next.

Nishikori’s progress has been impressive so far and he was too good for Russian Andrey Kuznetsov, winning 6-3, 6-3, 6-3.

After a flurry of falling women’s seeds in round one, order was restored as the sun finally appeared in Paris, although two French players proved easy pickings.

Radwanska bested Car-

oline Garcia 6-2, 6-4 and Muguruza, trying to become the first Spanish woman to win the title since Arantxa Sanchez-Vicario in 1998, thrashed Myrtille Georges 6-2, 6-0.

Romania’s Halep, runner-up to Maria Sharapova in 2014, took a while to tame Kazakhstan’s Zarina Diyas to win 7-6(5), 6-2 and Czech Lucie Safarova, beaten by Serena Williams in the final last year, beat Swiss Viktorija Golubic 6-2, 6-2.

Men’s eighth seed Milos Raonic also made hay in the sun against a French player, crushing Adrian Mannarino 6-1, 7-6(0), 6-1, his reward a third-round against lucky loser Andrej Martin.

The standout clash of the third round will be Australia’s Nick Kyrgios against home favourite Richard Gasquet, after both won convincingly yesterday.

Tyson lands knockout blow Barbados Tridents signal against professionals at Rio intention of regaining IPL title … Sid Mallya welcomes return of CPL to ‘iconic’ Kensington Oval

By Guan Yongning BEIJING, China (Reuters) - Mike Tyson has branded the Amateur International Boxing Association’s (AIBA) decision to let professional fighters take part in the 2016 Rio Olympics as “ridiculous” and “foolish”.

Professional boxers would feature at the Olympic Games as long as a constitutional change went through in June, AIBA said earlier this year.

Former world heavyweight champion Tyson, who as an amateur won gold at the 1981 and 1982 Junior Olympic Games, said yesterday that professional boxers would be stunned by the fast-paced fighting style of the amateur fighters.

“It’s ridiculous, it’s foolish, and some of the pro fighters are going to get beaten by the amateurs. It’s just going to happen, I really believe that,” the 49-year-old told Reuters TV in China, where he is attending the 33rd IBF convention.

“If they are like the amateur fighters that I was fighting in the 80s ... they

Former boxer Mike Tyson reacts as he speaks to the media, before the weigh-in of International Boxing Federation (IBF) World Championship Bout at the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall of China on the outskirts of Beijing, China, May 24, 2016. are going to beat some of the champions. It’s just going to happen. These guys will be fast for three or four rounds, and these guys are not going to be accustomed to that.”

Tyson, who is the youngest boxer to win the WBC, WBA and IBF heavyweight titles, also revealed he was a fan of his namesake, Tyson Fury, and was impressed by the Briton’s victory over Wladimir Klitschko last year.

Fury caused a huge boxing upset in beating Klitschko by unanimous decision in November and inflicted the 40-year-old Ukrainian with his first loss in 11 years.

Fury is set to defend his WBA Super and WBO heavyweight crowns in a rematch with Klitschko in Manchester in July but has courted controversy with his comments outside the ring.

THE Barbados Tridents will be looking to make home form count as they bid to regain the HERO Caribbean Premier League (CPL) title and will face the Jamaica Tallawahs in the Kensington Oval on Thursday, July 11.

The Tridents have signalled their intent to regain the title they last won in 2014, by signing up South African star AB de Villiers in the close season. He will join an exciting panel which includes fellow Proteas trio Wayne Parnell, Robin Peterson and David Wiese, Pakistan’s Shoaib Malik as well as the likes of the hugely influential local trio Kieron Pollard, Nicholas Pooran, Ravi Rampaul.

West Indies Under-19 World Cup winner Shemar Springer will also feature in this year’s squad.

The combination of day and night time games is sure to attract a large following to the 15 000 capacity Kensington Oval once more.

Speaking at the announcement of their home CPL fixtures, Sid Mallya, Chairman of the Barbados Tridents franchise, said, “The Kensington Oval is one of world cricket’s most iconic grounds.

To be there with a vocal home support behind you is an enormous thrill for the Tridents players and we are fully focused on bringing success back to Barbados this year.

“There is a really positive mood around West Indies cricket at the moment, following the success of the West Indies men, women and Under-19 teams over the past few months, and we are determined to build on that feel-good factor over the coming months.

“It is an exciting year for all concerned, and the chance to spread the game into mainland USA with matches for all the teams in Fort Lauderdale in the last weekend in July is a hugely exciting development both for CPL and the game of cricket in general.

“Barbados is a real stronghold for cricket in the Caribbean and the team will be focused on putting on a show for our fans both at home and on the road.”

The remaining fixtures will be confirmed over the coming week and tickets are on sale now from www.cplt20.com.

Barbados Tridents Home Fixtures (all times local): July 11 – Jamaica Tallawahs (20:00hrs), July 13 – St Kitts & Nevis Patriots (20:00hrs), July 16 - Trinbago Knight Riders (12:00hrs), July 17 – St Lucia Zouks (19:00hrs).

Barbados Tridents Squad: Kieron Pollard, AB de Villiers, Shoaib Malik, Nicholas Pooran, Ravi Rampaul, David Wiese, Robin Peterson, Raymon Reifer, Ashley Nurse, Wayne Parnell, Akeal Hosein, Imran Khan, Kyle Hope, Navin Stewart, Kyle Corbin, Steven Taylor, Shemar Springer.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday May 26, 2016

Sunrisers beat KKR to keep IPL dream alive SUNRISERS Hyderabad will face Gujarat Lions for a place in the Indian Premier League (IPL) final after beating Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) by 22 runs yesterday.

After seeing their form dip prior to the play-offs the Sunrisers got back to winning ways at the perfect time thanks to a disciplined display in the field at Feroz Shah Kotla.

Captain David Warner and star batsman Yuvraj Singh had helped Hyderabad reach 162-8 off their 20 overs, a total they were comfortably able to defend in Dehli.

Three wickets for Bhuvneshwar Kumar (3-19) and two for Moises Henriques (2-17) – who also scored 31 with the bat – helped stifle Kolkata as they came up short in their quest for a third title, finishing up on 140-8.

Warner (28) and Henriques gave the Sunrisers early momentum with the bat as they shared a 59-run

Player-of-the-match Moises Henriques takes 2 for 17 in three overs. stand for the second wicket, the latter seizing control with two maximums.

The Australian duo fell in successive balls to Kuldeep Yadav (3-35) but Yuvraj ensured they did not suffer a

middle-order collapse with a quick-fire 44 that included eight boundaries.

Two sixes from Bipul Sharma at the start of the over boosted their total, the long-off boundary cleared

Beijing medals at risk for Russia after positive re-tests (REUTERS) - Russia could lose medals from the 2008 Beijing Olympics after 14 of its athletes tested positive for banned substances during re-tests conducted from eight-year-old samples, the Russian Olympic Committee (ROC) said yesterday.

The ROC said in a statement that it had been informed by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) that re-tests of those samples had yielded 14 positive results from Russian athletes.

The ROC said it would not give the names of the athletes until the results of testing of their B samples and the start of official disciplinary proceedings.

Russian media reported a list of athletes, which could not be verified by Reuters.

It included high jumper Anna Chicherova who won a bronze medal in Beijing and went on to claim gold in London in 2012.

Her coach confirmed she was on the list earlier yesterday.

Several other athletes who won medals in Beijing were named.

“The Ministry of Sport is extremely disappointed to hear the speculation that Russian

The Russian national flag (R) and the Olympic flag are seen during the closing ceremony for the 2014 Sochi Winter Olympics, Russia, February 23, 2014.

(Reuters/Jim Young/File photo) athletes are among those found to have violated anti-doping rules at the 2008 Beijing Olympics after re-testing their samples,” Russia’s Sports Ministry said in a statement.

“Any athletes found cheating should face corresponding sanctions. We have taken numerous steps to eradicate the issue of doping, and understand that the roots of the problem, particularly in athletics, go back to the past.”

The latest revelations were a further blow to Russia and its hopes of sending a full team to Rio. The country’s

track and field athletes have been suspended since November after an international investigation uncovered damning evidence of doping and corruption.

The world athletics’ governing body, the IAAF, will decide on June 17 whether Moscow has done enough to clean up its act and be readmitted to competition and this year’s Rio de Janeiro Olympics.

Russia’s athletics federation said yesterday that it would not allow athletes who had been caught doping in previous years into the Russian team for the Rio Games.

on both occasions by the number nine on his way to 14 from six deliveries.

Kolkata – who had beaten Sunrisers twice in the regular season – made a steady start to their reply but lost wickets at regular intervals to hinder their progress.

Manish Pandey (36) and Suryakumar Yadav (23) tried valiantly to keep them in touch with a 46-run partnership for the fifth wicket, but ultimately it was not enough.

As the run-rate rose the pressure became too much for the Knight Riders and Hyderabad were able to clinch victory and keep their hopes of meeting Royal Challengers Bangalore in the final alive. (Omnisport. com)

AB de Villiers best current batsman - Kohli

VIRAT Kohli has acknowledged AB de Villiers as the best current batsman, and lauded his composure under pressure after the South African’s 47-ball 79 helped Royal Challengers Bangalore qualify for their first IPL final since 2011.

Royal Challengers had slumped to 68 for 6 in their chase of 159 against Gujarat Lions in the first Qualifier before de Villiers shared an unbroken 91-run stand with Iqbal Abdulla to carry his side home with 10 balls to spare.

“Unbelievable, can’t believe I’m the winning captain,” Kohli said at the postmatch presentation. “That should end a lot of debates as to who is the best going around. No question about it.

“Come the big game, the big man stands up. I just bow down to him; that was probably one of the best knocks under pressure I’ve seen.

So composed, taking Iqbal Abdulla along. He was really motivated to do it for the team. I’m really happy for him, I’m really happy for the whole team. Special credit to Iqbal as well, the way he got stuck with AB, that crucial partnership. That was wonderful composure to see from a young guy.”

After having lost five of their first seven games, Royal Challengers were languishing in the bottom half of the table before winning six of their final seven matches, including a knockout game against Delhi Daredevils, to finish second in the league stage.

“We have been playing good cricket coming into

South Africa;s batting maestro AB de Villiers

the playoffs, the guys wanted the opportunity,” Kohli said. “We’ve been speaking of guys wanting to step up every game. The top order didn’t do well. But AB, the class batsman that he is, I could see the opposition were worried about him, they wanted him out pretty badly because they know what he can do.”

The first Qualifier was played on an atypical Bangalore pitch with the ball holding up in the surface and assisting the spinners. Kohli said a thin drizzle during the chase also helped Royal Challengers.

“It did play a bit slow in the first half of the first innings. Second half it settled nicely. I wasn’t too unhappy about the few showers in-between, it settled the wicket.

The ball didn’t turn so much; it didn’t stop in the end. But high pressure game, it doesn’t matter; you could be playing on a cement wicket. You need composure and that’s what AB de Villiers had.” (ESPN Cricinfo)

TTFA denies cost-cutting moves

THE Trinidad and Tobago Football Association (TTFA) has refuted media reports in that country claiming that it has cut staff in an ongoing process of rationalisation.

Media reports there claimed that the association had let go David Muhammed and Peter Rampersad as well as press officer Shaun Fuentes. However, president of the association David John-Williams moved quickly to dispel the reports.

“The TTFA has taken no decision to reduce the staff of the men’s national senior team, not only for the ongoing three-match international tour, but also from a general standpoint as it relates to the operations of the national men’s team,” he said in a statement released by the TTFA. The statement was in direct response to reports claiming that Williams, vice-presidents Ewing Davis and Joanne Salazar as well as Alvin Henderson would travel with the national squad for their match against China on June 3 but the Muhammed, Rampersad and Fuentes would not make the trip.

According to the TTFA statement, Fuentes was invited by CONCACAF to attend a CONCACAF Champions League Summit and Media Officers Workshop in Miami, May 30-31, and was also chosen as the Media Officer for the League.

“The TTFA will continue to facilitate the operations of the senior national team on a need-to-need basis depending on the requirements necessary for the particular engagement,” the statement said. “The organisation will not and does not intend to make decisions that will negatively affect any of our national teams as it relates to operational staff.” (Sportsmax.com)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday May 26, 2016

Pakistan cricket has no more legends to inspire country - Zaheer Abbas

INTERNATIONAL Cricket Council (ICC) president Zaheer Abbas has expressed disappointment over the gradual downward slide of Pakistan cricket saying he is ‘saddened to see the state of affairs today’.

The former batsman, who was known as the Asian Bradman for his run-scoring feats, was also concerned with the fact that his coun-

Pakistan batting legend Zaheer Abbas try has stopped producing legends.

“For a country which has a rich cricketing history and legacy, it saddens me to see the state of affairs today. It’s sad that a country which has produced so many legends now has to even think about playing in the qualifying rounds of a ICC event,” he said as quoted by Business Standard.

“It pains me to see that the national team is now not producing the quality per-

formances of the past. Our players are just not producing the sort of performances we expect and saw in the past. In the past our youngsters had a lot of idols and legends to look up to and emulate and today we look towards the Indian players.”

The former right-hand batsman who, after a oneyear tenure, will step down as ICC president on July 27, felt the absence of international

cricket in Pakistan is hurting the country. No cricket team has toured Pakistan since the 2009 terror attacks on the Sri Lankan team bus, which saw several cricket players injured and eight killed, including six policemen.

“Our players are not getting the right opportunities and exposure. They are also not in the IPL. I feel sorry for the young players who can’t play international cricket

or against touring sides at home. It will take time for international cricket to return to Pakistan and a lot depends on what the situation is in the country in the future. But I am optimistic that in this context the scenario is improving.”

Pakistan are scheduled to tour England in July where they will play four Test matches, five ODIs and a solitary T20 game.

Brazil investigating possible corruption at Olympic venues

By Brad Brooks RIO DE JANEIRO, Brazil| (Reuters) - Brazilian investigators have expanded their probe into possible corruption around the staging of the Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro this August to include all the venues and services financed with federal funds, a lead prosecutor told Reuters.

Federal investigations have previously focused on “legacy” modernisation projects not directly tied to the Games but this newly disclosed probe includes Olympic Park and the Deodoro area where Olympic venues are located, federal prosecutor Leandro Mitidieri said.

“It’s not just the physical works we’re looking at - it is contracts for services, security, everything that used federal funds,” he told Reuters from his Rio de Janeiro office late on Tuesday.

The Olympics were meant to showcase Brazil’s rise as a global power. Instead, they will take place as suspended President Dilma Rousseff faces an impeachment trial, the economy suffers its worst recession since the 1930s, an outbreak of the Zika virus prompts health concerns and a massive corruption scandal infuriates Brazilians.

Mitidieri said his team is also investigating what happened to federal funds earmarked for cleaning Guanabara Bay, where Olympic sailing events will take place, and lakes that surround the main Olympic venues in western Rio’s Barra neighborhood.

Those bodies of water have heavy sewage contamination and remain badly polluted despite promises to drastically improve them as a legacy achievement of the Olympics.

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER (Thursday May 26, 2016) COMPLIMENTS OF THE TROPHY STALL-Bourda Market & The City Mall (Tel: 225-9230) & AUDREY’S TASTY SNACKETTE-176 Charlotte Street, Georgetown (Tel: 226-4512) Answers to yesterday’s quiz: (1) Royal Challengers Bangalore (2) 0 Today’s Quiz: (1) How many preliminary matches were scheduled in IPL 2016?

(2) Which two teams contested Qualifier 1 of IPL 2016?

Answers in tomorrow’s issue

Another team of federal prosecutors, along with federal police, is investigating whether the Rio de Janeiro state water utility company Cedae committed environmental crimes by not properly treating sewage in Rio’s metropolitan area of 12 million people, Mitidieri said.

Rio utility Cedae said it had not been notified about the investigation and could not make a comment without understanding more about the probe.

Mitidieri would not say if his team had uncovered any proof of corruption but he added that detailed announcements about the investigation’s results would be made in coming weeks.

Five construction firms are building most of the 39 billion reais ($10.8 billion) worth of venues and infrastructure needed for Rio’s Olympics. The figure includes at least 1.76 billion reais in federal funds, according to

documents from Brazil’s federal accounting court.

All five companies are caught up in an investigation into price-fixing and kickbacks at state-run oil company Petrobras, a two-year probe that has seen scores of top executives and politicians jailed, charged or under investigation.

The Petrobras (PETR4.

SA) investigation is what led federal police and prosecutors to begin looking at possible corruption tied to the Olympics.

Federal authorities have already said they are investigating the Porto Maravilha project, an 8 billion real facelift of Rio’s dilapidated port area, and also the expansion of the city’s metro line to the Olympic area in Barra.

Court files made public in March showed police uncovered documents from executives of Latin America’s largest construction firm, Odebrecht SA (ODBES.UL)

that referenced 1 million reais in suspected bribes connected to those two big legacy projects.

Odebrecht is at the centre of the Petrobras scandal and is involved in over half of all Olympic projects by value, according to contracts reviewed by Reuters.

A spokeswoman for Odebrecht said by email that the company had no comment to make. Mitidieri declined to provide details on which companies are the focus of the federal probe, though he did note that OAS SA (OAS.UL) and Queiroz Galvao had “a lot of activity” in the Deodoro region of the Olympics. OAS did not respond to requests for comment. A spokeswoman for Queiroz Galvao wrote in an email that the company had not been notified about the investigation and had no further comment.

Rio de Janeiro’s city government oversees most Olympic construction proj-

ects, though a few are financed by the federal or state government. The city government says contracts were mostly funded with private resources and that all bids were overseen by regulators.

Rio 2016, the local organising committee, handles some non-permanent structures like seating, and has a budget of 7 billion reais.

The federal government, Mitidieri noted, is by law responsible for any debts the local organising committee may incur.

The Rio 2016 local organising committee referred questions to the mayor’s office.

The mayor’s office said it would not comment without knowing what exact contracts were under investigation. It added in its emailed response that all contracts were carried out in a transparent manner and that city officials were prepared to provide any clarifications necessary.

Hawk-Eye for goal-line technology (Reuters)-Hawk-Eye technology will be used to decide whether the ball has crossed the goal-line at next month’s Copa America Centenario in the United States, the tournament’s organising committee said yesterday.

The British company’s camera-based system, utilised widely in tennis and cricket and at the 2014 World

Cup final, will be installed in all 10 stadiums hosting football’s oldest international championship.

Hawk-Eye was also used during the 2015 Women’s World Cup, and in several of the world’s leading football leagues and federations, including UEFA, the English Premier League and Germany’s Bundesliga.

The system uses seven cameras to track the flight of the ball, indicating to the referee via a vibration device whether a goal has been scored. Referees will still be helped by additional assistant referees.

The Copa America is a 16-team version of the South American championship that has expanded by four teams and is being staged outside

the South American CONMEBOL nations for the first time.

The hosting United States will launch the tournament with a Group A match against Colombia at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California on June 3.

The final will be held on June 26 at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday May 26, 2016

Vieira credits ‘pure racing’ for CMRC wins (By Stephan Sookram in Jamaica compliments of Buy Me Auto Sales, Renta-Tent, Fly Jamaica and BM Soat Auto Sales)

MANY men have sought to claim glory on successes and oftentimes forget those who assisted them on their path down that road.

That isn’t the case, however, of Stephen Vieira, as he laid the praise of his Caribbean Motor Racing Championship (CMRC) 2016 victories at the feet of his team’s Pure Racing, headed by Andrew Phang.

Stephen Vieira Speaking exclusively to Chronicle sport in Jamaica this week, the 2015 run-

ner-up and 2016 challenger contended, “It was actually a very good weekend and it

was a good weekend for us. I have to thank Andy (Andrew Phang) and his wife for supporting me and helping me to get my bike sorted out.”

Vieira, who stormed to the lead of the 2016 edition of the Championships after the first round last weekend at the Jamwest Raceway, continued, “Me and Andy are in talks right now to develop the bike much better; we had some issues last weekend.”

With two wins from three races, the veteran, a multiple Caribbean Champion has amassed a total of 68 points

on exit from Jamaica and hopes to carry that momentum back home and hopefully to Round 2 in Trinidad in just over ten weeks.

“I like speed, any track with a good speed I’m on it. I think my edge over the competition this weekend was race experience, that’s the truth,” the Kawasaki ZX6-R Rider told Chronicle Sport.

Though it’s safe to say that he has conquered what is racing at Jamwest, and with his focus re-shifting to the Wallerfield in Trinidad, the Guyanese admitted that

there is still one feat he is yet to achieve across the Caribbean.

That is the current CMRC superbike lap record, reset last weekend by holder Elliot Vieira with a blistering 1:11.110 time.

“I want to break a lap record. Actually, my little cousin (Elliot V) is doing well with the lap record; I can’t win everything. I would like to thank my sponsors Sunburst Orange Juice, Seaboard Marine and Fly Jamaica for an amazing weekend,” he concluded.

Maximum Sports celebrates second anniversary, 100th episode THE popular weekly television show, Maximum Sports: Strength and Combat, hosted and produced by sports enthusiast Max Massiah will celebrate its second anniversary and 100th episode with its airing tomorrow, and a number of special invited sporting officials and athletes are expected to be on the show to commemorate the event.

T h e h o u r- l o n g , l i v e programme, which airs every Friday on NCN from 21:00hrs, is expected to have a longer duration lasting 90 minutes for tomorrow’s airing.

Last year, to celebrate the first anniversary, Massiah invited three-time Ms International Bodybuilding champion and overseas-based Guyanese Laura Creavalle to be part of the show.

So this year he wanted once again to do something special for the occasion, but this time with the local fraternities.

“Last year for our first anniversary we brought in Ms Laura Creavalle, who is one of the world’s most renowned female bodybuilder, as a special guest.

“For this second anniversary I’m going to host our locals. I’m going to be having our top male and female bodybuilder - Kerwin Clarke and Alicia Fortune, - and, I’ll be having Clive Atwell (boxer).

There will be young Ms Aaliyah Wong, our female Karate world champion. I may have a representative from the GOA, Mr Peter Abdool and Steve Ninvalle from the Boxing Association, (Minister) Ms Nicolette Henry, and Mr Chris-

Max Massiah topher Jones might be message across to the viewthere,” Massiah said. ers.

Launched May 30 2014, “Most of the viewers the show focuses on com- and the federations have petitive combat sports in- seen the programme as the cluding boxing, martial arts, platform for disseminating bodybuilding, powerlifting, their information. If the weightlifting, arm wrestling, Karate association has a rugby etc. tournament or the Boxing According to Massiah, association has a bout I who is a certified boxing would host them on the coach, referee and judge, programme to let the viewthe show is all about giv- ers have the information. ing a stage for the varying The programme has facilicombat sports to get their tated every single sport fed-

eration that comes under the umbrella of combat and strength sports,” Massiah noted.

Massiah, who also has over 35 years’ experience in bodybuilding, has a Certificate in TV Production from the UG Centre of Communication Studies. a certificate endorsed by the Ohio University and USAID, HED (Higher Education for Development), and ACE (A Mercian Council on Education).

Massiah expressed that he is overjoyed to see the show come so far.

“For lots of persons who thought this programme would not have lasted 3 or 4 months, well I’m now celebrating two years, getting stronger, and have completed 100 editions. I am overwhelmed by the response from the various viewers.

It’s not just one of those talk, talk shows, it is informative, it is entertaining and it’s inspiring.” Massiah stated For Massiah the show would be nowhere without its sponsors.

“The sponsors have been the oxygen of this programme. I must say thanks to them. The main sponsor is A. Ali and Sons.

I have a special sponsor Gifltand’s Mall, there’s Jermine’s Enterprise and Fitness Express, which has been with the programme from the inception, Nexgen Global Marketing, Hand-in-Hand Insurance, PasCargo Airline Shipping and Industrial Supply Guyana (ISG).

“And I, of course, give thanks to the viewers, who tune in, who meet me and say they enjoy the programme,” he said.

Gayle must behave - IPL boss chides Windies star

INDIAN Premier League chairman Rajiv Shukla has branded recent comments made by West Indies cricket Chris Gayle as ‘uncalled for’ and promised to take up the issue with the Board of Cricket Control India (BBCI).

The big left-hander has once again found himself at the source of close scrutiny following another interview, this time with reporter Charlotte Edwardes of The Times.

In the exchange the player is reportedly said to have

asked Edwardes, among other things, whether or not she has ever had a threesome and how many black men she had slept with.

“The players must behave. We expect the players to adhere to a certain kind of behaviour when the tournament is on. The players should maintain the sanctity of the league.

These kind of statements are totally uncalled for in public domain. I will take up this issue with the pres-

Chris Gayle

ident and the secretary of the BCCI,” Indian Premier League chairman Rajiv Shukla said.

The Board of Cricket Control India (BBCI) for its part seemed content to stay clear of the issue that it claimed involved two foreign entities.

“At this point, we’ll not look into it. We’re focused on completing the IPL, which has reached its final stages.

What has happened in this case is between two foreign individuals. It is a personal

matter between people who aren’t from India.

At the same time, that doesn’t mean that we’ll ignore it. If a complaint is brought to us, we’ll act on it.

If it develops into something more, we’ll look into it at an appropriate stage,” BCCI secretary Ajay Shirke told India Today.

On Tuesday Australia Big Bash League (BBL) team Melbourne Renegades announced that they would not be re-signing the player for

the next edition of the tournament.

Gayle was involved in controversy during the BBL season when he asked Australian reporter Mel McLaughlin out to a date on live television. The cricketer insisted the interview was an attempt at humour, but was fined US$10 000 by Melbourne.

Gayle’s Royal Challengers Bangalore have secured themselves a spot in the IPL final. (Sportsmax.com)

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, May 26, 2016

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GOA to support Doris and other Olympic Qualifiers

By Tamica Garnett

Triple jump Olympic qualifier, Troy Doris, (fourth from left), is flanked by GOA president K.A. Juman-Yassin (second from left), AAG president, Aubrey Hutson (right), and his family.

AS THE time draws nigh to the 2016 Rio Summer Olympics, Guyana, with only a modest team of qualifying athletes, will have all eyes on topranked triple-jumper Troy Doris, who is currently here, planning the future of his athletic career with the Guyana Olympic Association (GOA) and Athletics Association of Guyana (AAG).

GOA and AAG together yesterday hosted a press conference at Olympic House, High Street, Kingston, to disclose plans ahead for Doris, who was also present at the head table.

Doris qualified for the Olympics earlier this month with a triple-jump distance of 17.18m, way surpassing the 16.90m minimum Olympic qualifying standard. This distance also placed him as the current third highest world-ranked triple jumper.

Doris stands behind only China’s Bin Dong, who has a best jump of 17.24m, and USA’s Christian Taylor, with 17.23m.

With such high standards, hopes are high that Doris will make it into the final of his event, and possibly even medal, in the process bringing much needed attention to athletics in Guyana.

“Troy is going to bring a lot of visibility to Guyana; he is really and truly going to assist us with our national programme. Because most of the time when you go to talk to international sponsors to sponsor our programme the first question they ask is: who do you have in the finals? I think that we are going to see Troy in the final.

“So now we can then sit down and talk with the powers that be about sponsorship for our programmes.” President of the AAG, Aubrey Hutson, noted at yesterday’s press See Page 26

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THURSDAY, MAY 26, 2016